When the disappointing weight of homesickness is heavy on your shoulders, it is difficult to immerse yourself in your new surroundings. I have always wanted to travel and I love to embrace a challenge, so I was surprised and upset when I found myself growing homesick in Ireland. I have also felt guilty because I feel so lucky to be here, so why do I occasionally find myself wishing I was home?
No matter how much you love experiencing new things, seeing the world, or meeting new people, homesickness is normal and to be expected. I expected to ascend beyond this, but every day I feel the nostalgic fog of my life back home settle around me.
When I am in this perspectiveless mist, I try to remember that I have people at home to support me. No matter how often I am upset, they will always listen and offer words of encouragement or even just an ear to help me through my feelings.
However, sometimes words from supporters don’t help and you feel out of control. So, here are some things that I do to help myself live in the moment and enjoy my experiences, even though I miss home.
GO ON A WALK
I never thought I would be someone who walks without a purpose. However, when I am worked up, sad, unmotivated, or just not sure what to do, walking calms me. It definitely helps that the University of Limerick has a beautiful campus and multiple walking trails, but walking, in general, helps dispel bad energy.
Whether in silence or to music, a podcast, or a series, walking makes me feel better. I just walk and walk until I feel at peace. This can take as little as 15 minutes or as much as 2 hours, but it is worth it because not only am I helping my mind, but my body.
Even if I don’t feel like it, I make myself walk when I am spiraling because anything is better than sitting and stewing in my room. Also, finding new walking routes is a great way to explore your new surroundings and even find a sweet treat to reward yourself.
MAKE A MEAL
Since I do not have as many commitments abroad as I do at home, I often find myself with an abundance of time. Whenever I feel homesick, this can be hard because I have nothing to distract myself. However, I have found that making a fulfilling meal helps fill that time, get my mind off things, fuel my body, and make me feel successful.
The best meals for times like this are ones that require a lot of chopping. That does not mean they have to be difficult or even need a lot of ingredients; it just means you have to make more movements and be more intentional. One of my favorites right now is a scramble.
First, I pour oil into a pan over low heat, gradually raising it to medium throughout these steps. Next, I chop up garlic super finely and toss it in. Then, I cut some potatoes super thinly into little squares, taking my time. I throw the potatoes into the pan before cutting up whatever vegetable I have, like bell peppers or zucchini, and putting them in. Next, I put in some kind of protein, whether sausage, beans, or egg. Then, I tear up some spinach and toss it in with a bunch of spices, usually cumin, cajun seasoning, chili powder, and garlic salt. Finally, I scoop in some cottage cheese and chop up some cheddar cheese chunks before drizzling on some hot sauce. This meal is super simple, but also fulfilling with protein and nutrients. Plus, you can change it up in so many ways and even adjust it to reflect the ingredients that your host country is best known for.
By the time I finish this soothing, ritualistic task, I feel accomplished and at peace. It’s also super delicious, which definitely doesn’t hurt.
IMMERSE IN A HOBBY
Along those same lines of having too much free time, if I am feeling homesick with nothing to do, sometimes the best thing to do is get absorbed in a hobby. I first create the perfect atmosphere by cleaning my room, lighting a candle, getting some water and tea, and putting on some great music or a show. Then, I will pull out a good book, some crocheting yarn, or a yoga mat.
Trust me when I say that when I am in the depths of missing home, I usually do not feel like doing these things. That’s where the perfect environment comes in. I make the task look as pleasing and aesthetic as possible so that I feel more like doing it. Then, before I think anymore, I just get started. I put my phone on "do not disturb" and try to hyperfocus on whatever I am doing.
Even if I only spend 15 minutes on whatever hobby it is, in the end, I feel better because I have invested time in myself, built a skill, or just taken a second to do something I love.
HANG OUT WITH PEOPLE
Making friends in a new country can be daunting, but it is essential. Anytime you are next to someone, try to start a small conversation. The key step, though, is to gather their Instagram, WhatsApp, or any form of contact so you can reach out in the future.
Whenever I know I have free time coming up, I try to message anyone I know to see what their plans are so that I can tag along. This helps me prevent having long periods without anything to do and gives me opportunities to experience new things with great people.
Hanging out can be as simple as asking someone to grab coffee one morning, or as intense as going on a weekend trip. It seems scary to message people, but most of the time, they are dying for plans too.
My university has countless events through different departments and on-campus businesses. By following their social media accounts, I can keep track of what’s going on and message my friends whenever something piques my interest.
If you are having a hard time making friends, though, try to join some clubs. At home, my organizations are high-commitment and more serious, so here I have been trying to join low-pressure clubs that highlight different areas of my life. I have joined clubs for crafts, yoga, fashion, and more where I can meet people with similar interests while doing something I enjoy.
Taking these measures and putting in the effort to see people, even if you do not feel like it, makes a huge difference. Plus, you get to meet people from all over the world and make unforgettable connections.
PLAN A TRIP
When I am feeling down, creating something to look forward to can help. Additionally, I want to take advantage of my time abroad, and planning trips makes sure I get to do that.
Looking for sites to see, places to stay, and activities to do is exciting and can give you the perspective of how unique your position is. Additionally, you can plan trips with friends to grow more relationships or do them alone to have a self-bonding time.
To start, I first planned day trips to places in Ireland to get to know my new friends better. Next, I have started reaching out to friends from home who are also studying abroad and want me to visit them or meet them in another country. Finally, once I feel more comfortable, I plan to organize some international trips with friends I have made while abroad.
Don’t let all of this talk of homesickness deter you from your travels, though. This is all a part of the growth and looks different for everyone. The challenges of being away from home are half of what makes studying abroad worth it. It allows you to find yourself because the unknown surrounds you.
I know that my process will fluctuate, and that is okay. These are just the things that work for me right now, and I hope that they can help you too.
All of this being said, I have done some great things in Ireland! I already have so many experiences that I am excited to share, so stay on the lookout.
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