Three Things I Do to Stay Healthy While Traveling.
Traveling can be exciting and enriching, but it often disrupts our routine and challenges our health practices. As an Ayurvedic practitioner, I’ve learned to maintain my health and well-being while on the go by incorporating a few key practices into my travel routine. Here are three things I do to stay healthy while traveling:
1. Stick to a Routine (Dinacharya) 🌞🌙
One of the cornerstones of Ayurveda is Dinacharya or daily routine. Maintaining a consistent routine while traveling can help balance the doshas and keep you grounded.
Morning Ritual:
Warm Water with Lemon: I start my day with a glass of warm water and lemon to kickstart my digestion and flush out toxins. This simple practice helps me feel refreshed and ready for the day ahead.
Abhyanga (Self-Massage): I carry a small bottle of warm sesame oil for a quick self-massage. This not only nourishes the skin but also calms the nervous system, especially after long flights or car rides.
Nasya: I carry Banyan Nasya oil so that I can perform Nasya everyday to calm the Vata dosha, soothe dry nasal passages, and reduce irritation. It improves my sleep and helps me stay grounded.
Throughout the Day:
Regular Meal Times: I strive to eat at regular intervals, even when my schedule is hectic. This helps me manage my hunger and prevents overeating.
Evening Ritual:
Wind Down with Herbal Tea: I end my day with a cup of calming herbal tea, like chamomile or tulsi, to promote relaxation and ensure a good night's sleep.
2. Pack Ayurvedic Essentials 🌿
Traveling light is important, but I always make room for a few Ayurvedic essentials that support my health and well-being.
Herbal Supplements:
Triphala: This traditional Ayurvedic formulation supports digestion and regular bowel movements, which can be disrupted when traveling. I take a small dose before bed.
Ashwagandha: Known for its adaptogenic properties, ashwagandha helps manage stress and boost energy levels. It’s a must-have for maintaining balance in a new environment.
Essential Oils:
Lavender Oil: A few drops of lavender oil on my pillow or in a diffuser helps me relax and adapt to new sleeping environments.
Peppermint Oil: This is great for relieving headaches and nausea, which can be common during travel.
Healthy Snacks:
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, Sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are nutrient-dense and provide a quick energy boost.
Fresh Fruit: I keep fruits like apples and bananas handy for a healthy snack on the go.
3. Practice Mindful Eating and Hydration 🍽️💧
Eating mindfully and staying hydrated is crucial to maintaining health, especially when exposed to different cuisines and climates.
Mindful Eating:
Local, Fresh Foods: I prioritize eating fresh, local produce to ensure I'm getting the most nutrient-dense foods available. This also helps me avoid heavily processed and sugary foods.
Chew Thoroughly: I take time to chew my food thoroughly, which aids digestion and helps me stay connected to my body's hunger and fullness cues.
Hydration:
Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is essential, especially during flights and long drives. I always carry a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout the day.
Herbal Teas: I pack a variety of herbal tea bags in my travel kit. They not only keep me hydrated but also provide specific health benefits, such as aiding digestion or promoting relaxation.
Conclusion 🌍✨
Traveling doesn't have to derail your health goals. By sticking to a routine, packing Ayurvedic essentials, and practicing mindful eating and hydration, you can maintain your well-being no matter where your journey takes you. As an Ayurvedic practitioner, these practices have been invaluable in helping me stay balanced and energized while exploring the world.
Remember, the key to health is consistency and mindfulness, even on the go. Happy travels and stay healthy!
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By incorporating these Ayurvedic practices into your travel routine, you can enjoy your adventures while staying healthy and balanced. Embrace the wisdom of Ayurveda on your next journey!