Holiday Travel Tips
The holidays often mean traveling to visit family and friends. Not only does the actual traveling pose a challenge to our healthy habits, but spending time in unfamiliar surroundings or faced with party after party can really put a kink in those daily eating and exercise routines. So how do you face the challenge of holiday travel?
Pack healthy snacks. Whether you’re flying or driving or taking the train, having healthy, travel-friendly snacks with you will help you avoid the urge to splurge on fast food, gas station fare or airport ice cream treats. Stick some baby carrots, granola bars, an apple or some other favorite in your travel bag for a quick snack anywhere you go.
Prepare for stress. You know there will be some, so have a few strategies ready when it hits. Bring along a yoga video for some early morning relaxation. Spend 10 to 15 minutes a day stretching. Take a walk when you start to feel that blood pressure rise. Do what works for you, but don’t let the stress bring on stress eating.
Take time to exercise. Don’t forget to pack your workout clothes. When you get to your destination, put those workout shoes near the door. Fill up your water bottle and put it in the refrigerator. Plan a workout (whether it’s 10 minutes or an hour) into every day. Your mind and body will appreciate the effort.
Party smart. When you’re headed to a party or social event where you know there will be food, have a game plan. Keep a glass of water or diet soda in one hand while you’re mingling, so you won’t be able to eat and chat. Avoid the food table by socializing on the other side of the room. Pick and choose your treats. Eat only the goodies that are your favorites and avoid the rest. And eat off the smallest plate possible. You’ll take less initially and you’ll be less likely to go back for more.
Take time to relax. Find a place for some alone time to regroup and re-energize. Take a nap, take a bath, or take a walk. Read a book or listen to some music. Enjoy some peace and quite so that you can better enjoy the hustle and bustle of family get-togethers.
Enjoy every minute. Focus on the joy of the season. Cherish the moments you have with the people that are important to you. And cherish the moments you have with yourself. Now is a great time to look back on your year and evaluate the successes you’ve had so that you can move forward into the New Year fresh and rejuvenated.
Have a happy and healthy holiday! And remember, every challenge is an opportunity to evaluate, choose, and learn. Be well!
"Eat well. Live well. Be well."
