We all need a vacation from time to time, whether it's a weekend beach getaway or backpacking through Europe, it's an escape from the hustle of our daily lives. Sometimes though, it's very easy to over indulge and you may end up feeling guilty as you head home carrying a few extra pounds and not just in your luggage. Here at On The Move we fully endorse living life to the fullest and getting the most out of your travel and adventure experiences however we do recommend a few tips to keep yourself in check to stay healthy.
1. Moderation - Yes, that hotel buffet sure looks decadent but instead of piling everything on your plate all at once, try taking small portions of what entices your palate so that you get a little taste of each delicious offering. Eat slowly to enjoy and truly savour every morsel plus chewing your food properly means easier digestion so you don't experience tummy troubles afterwards!
(This goes for alcohol too, keep it classy folks).
2. Stay hydrated - Water is life, drink lots of it. Do ensure your water is safe to drink, the last thing you want on your holiday is cholera. Carry your own refillable water bottle, fill up on filtered water at your lodgings and public water fountains and if you are out and about and you want to be safe get some bottled water but please remember to dispose of plastics at the closest recycle bin ( keep it with you until you can) OR ask for boiled water. This is quite common in Asia, no one will think you're weird for asking.
3. Walk ,Bike or Hike -Take an early morning stroll around the block before or after breakfast if you are a morning person or trek down to the savviest night spot after dinner and take in the night lights. If you can ride a bike (not everyone has mastered this skill, but it's never too late to learn) bike around the town for a fun alternative to sight seeing rather than on a tour bus. Of course you would have to rent a bike, but do some research and find the most affordable options available to you and go for it. Nature lovers might prefer hiking a trail and taking in the local fauna and flora, if your destination has this feature then by all means put on some comfy shoes and get to trekking!
4. Workout - Most hotels have gym facilities, if you are a fitness fanatic you would surely make use of your hotel gym to keep up your gains while you travel. If gyms aren't your thing, try a hotel room workout or go outdoors, if you have Wifi and access to Youtube (you will need a VPN if you are in China but that's another story) there are hundreds of travel/hotel room specific routines to get your blood pumping and the endorphins flowing. It's also a good idea to look up some printable circuits before leaving on your trip so you have no excuses. These are also readily available online, just ask Google or browse Pinterest to find the ones most suitable to your needs and level of fitness. Opt for bodyweight/no equipment routines and you're good to go.
5. Destress - Stress is bad. Stress can affect your health in many negative ways, mainly through increasing levels of the hormone cortisol in your system and this causes weight gain, increased blood pressure and cholesterol. It can even affect your immune functions and contribute to heart disease to name a few. So, what if your luggage was lost in transit? Sit back, relax and leave it to the relevant authorities. Don’t stress the small stuff like missing your bus or getting lost (maps are your friends). Take precautions to secure your valuable items and plan your trip in advance so that you have the benefit of organisation. At the end of the day, take a moment to clear your mind, relive the fun parts of your day, go to the spa, meditate and do some yoga or just sit in quiet reflection. Cherish every moment of your travels, each experience builds your character, your personality and brings a greater understanding of the world around you.
These are but a handful of basic methods to apply to your next overseas venture or staycation but with these tips in mind, we hope that they help you achieve the fullest, most exciting adventure wherever you may wander!
