Tips & Tricks for staying balanced while traveling
The BEST croissant I've ever tasted. It was stuffed with a delectable pistachio crème. (Rome, Italy)
Traveling is such an exciting adventure, offering countless new experiences and memories to be made. To keep your health and well-being in top shape while you’re on the go, a little preparation and mindfulness can make all the difference. With some simple strategies, you can stay radiant and fully enjoy every moment of your trip. Here’s how to find that perfect balance and make the most of your travels!
Preparation
Before you take off, make sure you’re well-prepared with a stash of nutritious snacks. Healthy snacks can be a lifesaver during travel, preventing you from making choices that don’t make you feel your best. Here are some of my top recommendations:
Once you reach your destination, explore local markets to find additional healthy food options (I love to grab some fresh fruit & veggies, if available!). This not only supports your nutritional needs but also immerses you in the local culture.
Nutrition
Maintaining a balanced diet is key to feeling your best. Focus on consuming foods that nourish your body with fiber, protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats. But remember, it's also important to enjoy the locally made deliciousness that travel brings. Find a balance between foods that fuel your body and those that nourish your soul.
The Importance of Balance
Traveling is a fun opportunity to explore new cultures through their cuisine. While it’s great to stick to a balanced diet, it’s equally important to allow yourself the pleasure of trying local dishes. Here’s how to embrace this aspect of travel without losing sight of your health goals:
Mindful Eating: Practice mindfulness by paying attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Eat slowly and savor each bite, which helps you recognize when you're satisfied. This practice not only enhances your dining experience but also prevents overeating.
Balance and Moderation: Enjoy local dishes, even if they’re indulgent, but do so in moderation. Incorporate these treats into a balanced meal plan by pairing them with healthier options.
Gratitude and Enjoyment: Appreciate the experience of trying new foods. Embrace all of the yummy flavors, and recognize that eating well is not just about nutrition but also about pleasure and cultural appreciation.
Staying Hydrated
Hydration plays a crucial role in managing hunger, supporting skin health, boosting energy, and ensuring proper digestion. Here’s how I stay hydrated while traveling:
Electrolytes: Adding electrolyte packets like LMNT or Trace Minerals to your water helps replenish essential minerals lost during travel.
Coconut Water: This natural drink is not only refreshing but also packed with electrolytes like potassium and sodium, making it a great choice for hydration.
Water Bottle: Always carry a refillable water bottle, especially on flights, to ensure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day.
Taking Vitamins and Supplements
Traveling can sometimes disrupt your routine, so it’s important to keep up with your vitamins and supplements. Consider packing these essentials to support your immune health & digestion:
Probiotics: These support gut health, boost immunity, and aid digestion, helping prevent bloating and maintain regularity.
Cymbiotika Greens Packets: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these help boost energy and support digestion.
Glutathione Packets: A powerful antioxidant that supports liver function and immune health, great for combating travel stress.
Sea Moss Gel Packets: Rich in essential minerals, these support thyroid function and aid digestion.
Digestive Enzymes: These help break down food efficiently, improving digestion and nutrient absorption.
Prioritize Sleep
Quality sleep is vital for maintaining your energy and well-being while traveling. Here’s how to enhance your sleep quality on the go:
Silk Eye Mask: Block out light and create a restful environment on flights and in new places.
Magnesium Glycinate: Supports relaxation and muscle function, making it easier to wind down.
L-Theanine: Promotes relaxation without drowsiness, helping you fall asleep more easily.
Ashwagandha: Known for its stress-reducing properties, it can help manage anxiety and improve sleep quality.
White Noise or Brown Noise: Use playlists or apps to create a calming environment for better sleep.
Movement While Traveling
Incorporating movement into your travel routine is essential for maintaining overall health. Here’s how to stay active while you’re away:
Use Your Accommodation’s Facilities: Many hotels offer fitness centers.
In-Room Workouts: If a gym isn’t accessible, engage in bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks. Many platforms like SoulSyncBody, FORM, and Youtube
Take the Stairs: Opt for stairs instead of elevators whenever possible to add extra movement to your day.
Active Transportation: Consider walking or biking to nearby destinations instead of relying solely on public transportation.
Join Local Fitness Classes: Look for yoga, pilates, or other fun classes to stay active and experience local fitness culture.
Lymphatic Drainage Techniques
Maintaining good lymphatic health can support overall well-being and help you feel rejuvenated during travel. Here are some effective lymphatic drainage techniques:
Legs Up the Wall: This simple yoga pose promotes lymphatic flow and reduces swelling in the legs. Lie on your back and elevate your legs against a wall, keeping them straight. Stay in this position for 5-10 minutes to help your body’s natural drainage processes.
Dry Brushing: Using a natural bristle brush, gently brush your skin in circular motions towards your heart. Dry brushing stimulates lymphatic circulation, exfoliates dead skin cells, and can aid in reducing the appearance of cellulite. Aim to dry brush before a shower to maximize the benefits.
Hydrotherapy: Alternating between hot and cold water in the shower can enhance lymphatic circulation. Start with warm water to relax the muscles, then switch to cold water to invigorate and stimulate lymphatic flow.
Massage: A gentle self-massage or using a foam roller can aid lymphatic drainage. Focus on areas where lymph tends to accumulate, like the thighs, abdomen, and arms.
Deep Breathing Exercises: Deep, diaphragmatic breathing can help stimulate lymphatic flow. Practice slow, deep breaths to encourage lymphatic movement and reduce stress.
Traveling doesn’t have to mean compromising your health. By preparing ahead, staying hydrated, supporting your immune system, prioritizing sleep, staying active, and incorporating lymphatic drainage techniques, you can maintain your well-being and fully enjoy your adventures. Embrace the journey with balance, mindfulness, and a sense of adventure. Safe travels and stay healthy!
With love & grace,
Morgan