Hiraeth: Navigating Homesickness as You Embark on Your Journey Abroad

Whilst on my travels people would often ask me about home. When faced with these questions, I often find myself drawn back to a word that perfectly encapsulates how I feel—Hiraeth. This Welsh term is more than just a word; it’s an emotion, a deep yearning for a place, a time, or a sense of belonging that seems distant, if not entirely out of reach. As you prepare to embark on your journey abroad, whether for study or work, it’s crucial to understand and embrace this concept of Hiraeth—not as something to fear, but as a guide to help you navigate the inevitable homesickness that comes with leaving home.

Hiraeth is a word as ancient as the misty mountains of Bannau Brycheiniog and as deeply rooted in the soul of every Welsh person as the rolling hills and rugged coastlines of Cymru. It’s a sentiment that transcends mere nostalgia. For me, it’s not just about missing the familiar sights and sounds of home; it’s a yearning for a version of my homeland that might never have existed—one that lives in the stories passed down through generations, in the songs sung, and in the history that shaped our identity long before modern times.

As you get ready to leave for your new adventure, whether it’s to the bustling cities of Japan, the sun-soaked landscapes of Australia, or the historic universities of Europe, it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. There’s the thrill of new experiences, new friendships, and new opportunities. But there’s also the Hiraeth—a longing for home that might catch you off guard when you least expect it. It might hit you when you hear a song that reminds you of home, or when you’re sitting alone in your dorm room thousands of miles away from everything familiar.

This feeling isn’t something to be ashamed of. On the contrary, Hiraeth is a powerful reminder of the deep connections we have to our roots. It’s a testament to the love we have for the places and people that shaped us. But it can also be overwhelming, especially when you’re in a new country trying to adjust to a new way of life.

So how do you deal with Hiraeth and the homesickness that comes with it? First, acknowledge it. Recognize that what you’re feeling is valid and that it’s okay to miss home. Allow yourself to reminisce about the things you love and miss. Maybe it’s the sound of the rain tapping against your window on a quiet evening, the smell of your favourite dish being cooked in the kitchen, or the comfort of a well-worn chair in your living room. These memories are precious, and they’re a part of who you are.

Next, find ways to bring a piece of home with you. It could be something as simple as carrying a photo of your family, keeping a playlist of your favourite songs, or learning to cook a dish that reminds you of home. These small gestures can create a sense of familiarity in an unfamiliar place.

Also, try to build a new community in your new environment. It’s important to make new connections and build a support network. Join student groups, attend cultural events, or simply reach out to other students who might be feeling the same way. Sharing your experiences with others can help alleviate the sense of isolation that often accompanies Hiraeth.

Learning about your new home is also a powerful way to bridge the gap between where you are and where you come from. Immerse yourself in the local culture, learn the language, and embrace the customs. The more you understand and appreciate your new surroundings, the more you’ll feel like you belong. Over time, you’ll start to create new memories and build a sense of home in your new environment.

Finally, remember that Hiraeth is a part of the journey. It’s not something to be “overcome” or “cured,” but rather, something to be embraced. It will evolve as you do. The longing you feel for home will always be a part of you, but as you grow and adapt to your new surroundings, you’ll find that Hiraeth will transform. It will become a connection not just to the place you left behind, but to the journey you’re on.