The metaphor “Travel is healing” involves both source and target domain mappings, which are used to connect the two domains of travel and healing. The following are some of the key mappings involved in this metaphor:
Source Domain Mapping:
- Journey as a process: In the context of travel, a journey represents movement from one place to another. In the context of healing, a journey represents progress from one emotional state to another.
- Exploration as discovery: Travel allows us to explore new places and cultures, while self-reflection allows us to explore our inner selves.
- Exposure to different cultures as learning: Travel exposes us to different ways of life and can teach us about other cultures. Healing involves learning about ourselves and others in order to grow emotionally.
- Relaxation as an antidote to stress: Travel can be a way to unwind from daily stressors, while self-care practices such as meditation or yoga can also reduce stress levels.
Target Domain Mapping:
- Healing process as a journey: The concept of traveling is mapped onto the idea of the healing process itself. Just as travel involves moving from one place to another, healing involves moving from one emotional state to another.
- Emotional growth and development through exploration: The act of exploring new places during travel is mapped onto the exploration of emotions during the healing process. Both involve gaining new perspectives and developing a deeper understanding.
- Increased awareness through exposure: Exposure to different cultures during travel can lead to greater understanding and empathy towards others. Similarly, becoming more aware of our own emotions can lead to increased self-awareness and better relationships with others.
- Relaxation for emotional well-being: Relaxation during travel is mapped onto relaxation techniques for emotional well-being during the healing process.
Overall, this metaphor uses source domain mapping (travel) and target domain mapping (healing) together in order to connect two seemingly unrelated concepts into one coherent idea - that travel can be a means for achieving personal growth and emotional healing.




