A study published last year in the Journal of Consumer Research revealed that people are afraid of doing things alone, especially activities deemed “social” by society. These activities include bowling, going to the movies and even vacations.

The same study concludes that people need to experience things alone because of the mental and physical benefits. When forced to participate in certain solo activities, the study showed participants ended up enjoying themselves just as much as people who did the activities with a partner.

Seeing a new film or bowling a game solo seems natural, but could you really vacation alone? You can and you should.

Time spent alone can recharge you, help you discover a renewed sense of independence, put you in touch more with your emotions, and provide a great opportunity to reflect on your life.

Traveling is not something you need to do with a group or even a partner. In fact, it’s often a more rewarding experience when done alone. Here are some reasons to book a solo vacation this year.

Exploring is Beneficial to the Mind and Body

According to a 2015 report, the average UK citizen has visited ten countries. Germans have seen at least eight. French citizens have traveled to an average of five foreign countries. So how do Americans size up? US citizens tend to visit just three! Even sadder – 29% of American adults have never left the country!

Another joint study from the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies and the U.S. Travel Association found that traveling is beneficial to health. The study found that women who vacation at least twice a year were at a significantly lower risk of suffering a heart attack than those who only traveled every few years. Men who didn’t take an annual vacation displayed a 20% higher risk of death and were at higher risk for heart disease.

Not Everyone Enjoys the Same Trip

You and your significant other have been vacationing together for years. There’s a good chance you’ve either been alternating the choice on where to go or vacationing in the same spot because only one of you enjoys going to the beach or on a cruise.

Taking a solo vacation leaves the entire trip in your hands. No one has to sit through another fishing trip or long days on a beach. You can go where you want, when you want, and plan every activity to your tastes. No more feeling like the vacation is “wasted” time off doing things you don’t particularly enjoy.

It’s Good to Get Away From People

Friends and family are a huge part of your life but those people can also be a drain on your time and energy. A vacation away from the stress of other people — even a spouse — will help recharge the internal battery.

There are countless benefits to being away from your spouse, including a newfound appreciation for what they do and what they mean to you. Some psychologists also believe that marriages benefit when spouses have time for themselves, either to pursue their own interests or just to relax.

It’s Good to Challenge Yourself

When was the last time you did anything entirely alone? No spouse or siblings or best friends along for the ride. If you can’t quite recall then it’s been much longer than you even realize.

By challenging yourself to take a solo vacation, you step outside your comfort zone and enter unchartered territory. Individuals who never challenge themselves have a harder time tapping into that resourcefulness and creativity deep inside.

Taking a solo vacation will challenge you to try new things, explore new places, try new foods and learn to fend for yourself for just a few days.