Regularly recurring movement that involves temporary relocation is a significant concept in population geography. This type of movement differs from migration in that the individual or group returns to their point of origin. Examples include transhumance, a seasonal herding of animals from highlands to lowlands, and migrant labor, where individuals work in a different location for a defined period before returning home.
Understanding these recurring movements is crucial for analyzing population distribution and economic activity. They contribute significantly to cultural exchange and the dissemination of ideas. Historically, these movements have shaped settlement patterns and influenced the development of infrastructure, connecting different regions and facilitating trade.