fitness and vacation
Who says all that hard work prepping your body for vacation has to go out the window once you get there? Or that you have to hit the hotel gym while others are out having fun just to stay in shape? Here are some simple things you can do while on the road to enjoy yourself without any post-vacation regrets!
- Recent studies show that the BEST way to de-stress on vacation is to moderately challenge your body – and your mind – en lieu of spending a week laying by the pool. Though there’s no harm in a little poolside time, also being active helps your body release tension and toxins that build up under stress. Likewise, doing puzzles or navigating maps is a great way to let your mind focus on other tasks so it can let the stresses of daily living go. So split your time between these equally for a good balance that will help you feel relaxed and refreshed when it is time to come home.
- Go out and explore – it is a great way to get some exercise and experience the place you are visiting! Walk the local streets and open-air markets, play in the ocean, try new activities like snorkeling, rafting, diving, zip-lining, windsurfing, skiing, etc. Or stay close to home and hit the pool, ocean-side yoga class or local trail…
- Stretch! As your body unwinds on vacation, capitalize on the benefits by stretching! Gentle spinal twists, hanging over to touch your toes, curling into a ball with your back on the floor, rolling your shoulders and neck all help to restore your natural posture and ensure a better night’s sleep, which in turn will give you more energy for tomorrow’s adventures! Remember to stretch when your body is warm (after a hot bath/shower/jacuzzi or exercise) and to ease into position to avoid muscle strain.
- Hydrate well. As your body breaks down stress and toxins in your muscles, water is an excellent way to flush them out of your system. Particularly in hot and humid climates (and when you are drinking alcohol), increase your water intake throughout the day to keep your body energized and refreshed. Remember, too, that dehydration often masks itself as hunger, which can lead to overeating at that the enticing buffet or fancy dinner.
- Eat when you are hungry, and keep snacks handy. Your schedule is often different on vacation, so don’t worry about eating meals at the “proper” times. Just because it’s noon does not mean you have to eat lunch. To avoid surges in hunger, keep healthy snacks like fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts and string cheese handy, and have a tiny snack before hitting the restaurant so you can order rationally. Hunt for vegetables on the menu, and split dishes when portions are large.
- Most of all, enjoy yourself! Vacation is a time for joy and fun, so don’t let worrying about your figure ruin your time. :)