For many of us, the holidays don’t just mean parties and presents, but lots of traveling as well. Not only can hitting the road to visit family and friends pose a challenge to our healthy habits, but being in unfamiliar surroundings or dealing with uncomfortable social situations can really put a kink in those daily eating and exercise routines. Prepare now, and you the challenge of holiday travel will be nothing but a tiny bump in the road.
Pack it up. Having healthy, travel-friendly snacks on hand will help you avoid the temptation to splurge on unhealthy travel food at the gas station, airport or drive-thru. Pack some cut vegetables, breakfast bars, fruit or other filling, low-calorie snacks a quick bite to eat wherever you are.
Get set for stress. It’s inevitable that there will be some kinks in your travel plans or your visit will be doused with drama. You know the holidays go hand-in-hand with stress, so be prepared. Prepare a meditation or visualization exercise for those moments when you can’t take it any more. Pack your yoga mat and a video and slip away for some exercise and centering. Find a quiet room and do 15 minutes of simple stretches to loosen and relax your muscles. Grab your coat and take a brisk walk. Before you hit the road, know what you’ll do with stress when it hits and you’ll avoid it’s negative affects.
Energize with exercise. Wherever you’re headed for the holidays, make sure to pack your workout clothes. When you get where you’re going, make exercise easy by setting out your gear and putting your workout shoes near the door. Fill up your water bottle and put it in the refrigerator. Schedule a workout into every day, even if it’s only for 10 minutes (but aim for 30 to 45). If you take the time to exercise, you’ll be energized and ready for all the holiday activities.
Prepare to party. Preparation is the key when you're headed to a party or social event where you know there will be food. Avoid munching while you chat by keep a glass of water or diet soda in one hand at all times. Socialize as far from the food table as possible to avoid mindless grazing. Choose your treats carefully and eat only your favorites. When you do eat, use the smallest plate possible. You'll take less initially and you'll be less likely to go back for more.
Relax. No matter how busy your travel schedule, find time for relaxation. Whether it’s a nap, a bath, or a walk that helps you to unwind, make a conscious choice to take time for yourself. Relaxing when you can will ensure you’re able to enjoy the commotion of family get-togethers.
Enjoy yourself. The holidays should be filled with joy. Do what you love. Spend time with the people who are important to you. Cherish the moments you have with your family and friends. And cherish the moments you have with yourself. If you do, you’ll be sure to have a happy and healthy holiday no matter where you travel.
How do you keep your holiday travels healthy? Join me at Blissfully Domestic's Healthy Living Group to share your healthy travel ideas or leave a comment below.
(Photo by Noel Zia Lee)
Ami writes about her attempts to stay healthy, live a local and green life and write that Great American Novel (or something like it) at Writing: My Life.
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Intersting article Ami!