Goa For The Mind & Soul

Ever wondered what’s it about Goa that’s so calming and peaceful? Is it the sea, the cool air blowing in from the hills or just the Susegad way of life? Clinical psychologist Shobhika Jaju takes a look at what makes Goa great for the mind!

GOA is popularly referred to as a “state of mind”. And indeed, when hordes of tourists arrive in the state every day, they can often be overheard remarking that this is where they were always supposed to be. GOA, the name itself resonates with rejuvenation, freedom, relaxation, mental peace, and similar feelings for most people who live here, have visited the state or have just heard about it.

While there are many aspects of Goa, which make it the ideal place to be in for a healthy & happy mind, quite a few of these aspects stand out. Let’s begin with the Goan way of life, or Susegad. The word by itself implies a laid-back, relaxed attitude towards life. When in Goa, do what the Goans do that is chill out. Although Goa is slowly striving to catch up to the metros in terms of the pace of life, the Susegad lifestyle lends a touch of tranquility to the Goan way of life. Research suggests that when we are able to strike a good work-life balance, our overall stress levels reduce. And no other place in the country provides you with an opportunity on a daily basis to switch off from work for some time and unwind. Even the quality of life in the state is far better than the rest of the country.