It can be all too easy to break healthy habits when you go away from your normal routine. Holidays are meant for downtime and relaxation and a part of that may be indulging in traditionally unhealthy habits from time to time. Naturally, it would be a shame for any hard work you’ve put in to be completely undone in the space of a short vacation. That is why this guide exists – to show you seven tips for maintaining positive habits while traveling.
Be a Little Strict with Dietary Habits
There is a balance to be struck between letting loose and completely losing control. If you are following a certain diet or food regime, try to stick to it at least half of the time you are there, or for the main meals of the day at least. There is still room for indulging and treats, but the main sustenance remains as consistent as possible. Often, changing to more positive eating habits is hard work and takes mental resilience and adaptation. Though it requires a lot of effort to change ways, it doesn’t take much effort at all to undo that change and revert to unhealthy ways.
Research and Plan the Local Area
Having an idea of what local cuisine and temptation is around your holiday accommodations is a great way of staying in control. This way, you can plan ahead and research menu options, exercise routes, and even self-care environments like spas and salons.
Have Fun – It Won’t Undo All Your Hard Work
Lots of diets call for the removal of vice products like sweet treats. Some don’t and these ones still yield good results when it comes to overall health maintenance. For example, alcohol is always a hard thing to navigate, but you can still drink on the keto diet with these keto friendly wine options that are widely available. So, a little fun, as long as it is properly managed, won’t undo all your previous efforts to be healthy.
Try to Exercise – Even Just a Little Counts
After having researched the local area a little, you will have a better idea of where you might be able to do some gentle exercise. This is a time for relaxation; however, there is no harm in sticking to routine. For a lot of people, a morning jog is a personal ritual and a way to start the day on a good note. There will be the opportunity to fit in something slow paced and undemanding.
Don’t Interrupt Your Sleep Schedule Too Much
Finding space to sleep is key to recuperation. Routines are bound to be interrupted with evening excursions; however, ensuring that at least the basic sleep needs are met is still important. Accept a slight change and an expected decline in slumber quality or quantity – but do not compromise too much! There is no point at all coming home exhausted, as it makes the point of going away in the first place redundant.
Take a Water Bottle
Stay hydrated above all else. Drinking water is amongst the most important things we can do for our body’s basic functions and general health levels. If you have a personal water bottle, it is far more likely to get used. If you have to buy drinks, chances are water might not be at the top of your list and the temptation to buy sugary fixes may be overpowering.
Wherever you go while traveling, there are bound to be methods of maintaining positive habits from your daily life back home. Try to prioritize what’s the most important and don’t make too many compromises.