So, I am preparing to head to Mexico later this month for a workshop and I'm preparing for all the potential craziness in this new world of modern travel. Along with whatever adventure and new experiences you may find, the risk of flight delays, layovers and unexpected events is just part of the journey.
That said, it's essential to prioritize your health and well-being. From navigating time zones to exploring new terrains, traveling is an exhilarating yet demanding experience for your body and mind. The following tips will help you maintain optimum health and reduce stress, ensuring you enjoy every moment of your journey to the fullest. Plus, we'll reveal why scheduling a massage and facial treatment upon your return can be the best travel hack yet.
1. Stay Hydrated:
Hydration is one of the bigest keys to staying healthy while traveling. Air travel, in particular, can be dehydrating, so it's crucial to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay eco-friendly and hydrated. I carry one with a filter in it so I can refill from any faucet and have clean, safe, great tasting water any time.
2. Prioritize Sleep:
Don't leave thing until the last minute before your trip. Depending on your departure time, you may already have your normal sleep interupted. Try getting to bed a little earlier the days before and jet lag can significantly impact your health and enjoyment of your trip. Try to adjust to the new time zone as quickly as possible by syncing your sleep schedule with your destination a few days before departure.
3. Keep Moving:
Long flights or car rides can take a toll on your body. Simple stretches, walking down the aisle of the plane, or taking short breaks during road trips can keep your circulation going and prevent stiffness and discomfort. If your feet and lower legs tend to swell, wear some compression socks to keep your legs from fatigue and discomfort before you even get there.
4. Eat Wisely:
While it's tempting to indulge in all the local cuisine, remember to balance it out with healthy choices. Opt for fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to keep your energy levels up and your body functioning well. This goes for the airport too. I like to pack some fruit, nuts, and healthy snacks in my carry on that include protein so I don't get a carb crash and my energy stays consistent. I even take some of the Protein and Veggie Powder we carry. It's a great quick something if you get caught in the aiport overnight and everything is closed and it's loaded with nutrition. I also pack individual packets for my suppplements each day. Staying consistent is a good way to stay healthy.
5. Mindfulness and Relaxation:
Travel can be overwhelming, so take moments to practice mindfulness or meditation. Apps can guide you through short sessions that help reduce stress and enhance your travel experience.
6. Make copies of your vital papers and cards:
If you lose or have these stolen, that will bring a prompt end to your stress-free, healthy time away. Taking the time to get digital copies of all your vital papers, your identification, passport and all your credit cards, front and back, can greatly reduce the inconvenience and stress should this happen. I keep a photo copy at home somewhere safe. Should something happen I can have a photo sent to me or if I have it on my phone already, I can act fast, calling the banks and proper agencies. This will save you a ton pf stress and potentially dollars if someone is trying to access your accounts.
7. Pack Well:
Spend more time having fun and less time unpacking, packing, choosing, and lugging luggage. Learn to pack well. Roll your clothes to prevent wrinkling and fit more in. Use packing cubes to seperate and making grabbing on the go easy. Pick a simple color theme, taking clothing that will all goe together leting you keep mixing and matching with less pieces. Want some color? Pack a great scarf or two for the climate you will visit. Pare your makeup down. One neutral set of colors, with a light lip and a dark lip and you are set to go. Make sure you have sunscreen in case you can't get someone when you get there as easily as you think (especially other countries). Since I have had my bags lost, I never travel without my essential skin, body, hair, makeup, supplements/medicines, a sweater, scarf, bathing suit, sandles, dress, and at least 1 additional outfit (that can be mixed and matched with my travel attire) in my carry-on. I travel in my sneakers since they are bulkier and if I have extra time at the airport I like to walk and get my steps in for the day. If you have all of these things, you will still be prepared for just about anything and you may even rethink checking a bag.
And now for your "New Favorite Travel Hack:
Post-Travel Recovery:
Loading and unloading a car, dragging bags, backpacks and luggage, overhead bins and such use muscles you are not likely using that way on a daily basis. I say it all the time, "Travel is not for the wimpy."
We recommend you get a massage wherever you go, when you get there to undo any stress or strain getting there and when you return, consider scheduling a massage and facial treatment. Between the physical demands leading to stress and muscle tension and the exposure to dry cabin air or changes in climate and sun exposure, your body and your skin are likely taxed. A professional massage can alleviate stress, improve circulation, and undo knots and stiffness, while a facial treatment can rejuvenate your skin and help undo some of the effects of climate changes and sun exposure. Doing this after a trip will help you prolong the benefits or your trip and prepare you to being your daily routines renewed and refreshed.
Have a favorite travel tip? SHARE it the comments or on our Instagram or Facebook pages.
We'd love to see you adventures too! ;)