What do you need the most when you have places to go and tasks to tackle? Energy, you're right! Knowing how to obtain energy and maintain your well-being is extremely important during any kind of travel. Business travel, while exciting, often presents challenges to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The whirlwind of meetings, unfamiliar surroundings, and on-the-go schedules can take a toll on your well-being. In this article, we´ll explore five practical habits and tips to prioritize your health while on the move for business.
1. Mindful Pre-Planning:
Before booking your trip, you should think about what is good and important for you. What do you need to fulfill your needs at home? Do you need to follow a certain type of diet? Do you need a yoga session in the evening to wind down before bed? Or do you need a workout in the morning to kickstart your system? Before your journey, take the time to research the destination. Look for restaurants offering nutritious options and hotels equipped with fitness facilities. Having a plan in place sets the stage for a more health-conscious experience. Every routine you follow at home you should continue while traveling. Sometimes it needs a little bit of creativity and flexibility to make it work, but your body and mind will thank you. For example, at the hotel, you can ask the chef to prepare a special meal. Maybe they offer a gym, or a yoga class, or you can bring your mat and practice it in your room. Make sure to keep that in mind while booking your accommodation.
2. Stay Hydrated on the Move:
Dehydration is a common pitfall during travel that can affect both your energy levels and focus. Combat this by carrying a reusable water bottle and making a conscious effort to stay hydrated. I know it can be hard to keep that in mind while on the go, but it is sooooo important! Save yourself the headache of a heat stroke and be prepared. Be mindful of caffeine and alcohol intake, which can contribute to dehydration. Pack hydrating snacks like fresh fruits and vegetables to nourish your body on the go.
3. Incorporate Quick Workouts:
Depending on what kind of trip you´re on your level of activity varies. On a city trip- if you are anything like me- you are probably running around the whole day. I can tell you I get lots of steps in, and move a lot while exploring the beautiful cities I´m traveling to! It´s a win-win situation. But when you are attending business meetings all day long, your body is probably longing for a good stretch or some other kind of movement. I know, after such a day it’s the last thing you want to do because you feel tired. But it´s not your body that is tired- it´s your brain. Exercise not only contributes to physical well-being but also boosts mental clarity and focus. And you don’t need to pack any fancy equipment, just use what you already have. Utilize your hotel room or find designated fitness areas to stay active. I didn’t bring my yoga mat to Prague, so I ended up doing a Pilates workout on a towel, on the bedroom floor. Love me a good Airbnb!
4. Optimize Sleep Quality:
Time differences and the feared jet lag can be a pain in the ass while traveling. To optimize sleep quality, create a sleep-conducive environment in your accommodation. Use blackout curtains, adjust the room temperature, and minimize noise disturbances. Pack some earplugs and a sleeping mask. Try to stick to the same sleep schedule as you did at home. When I can´t fall asleep because of all the city noises around me I listen to a playlist of “10 hours of continuous Rain Sounds for Sleeping”. It works every time!
5. Healthy Eating Habits on the Road:
Do you know what is better than stale airplane food? Your home-cooked meals! You are allowed to bring your own. When was the last time you packed yourself a lunch bag? For my last road trip, I prepared some vegetable sticks, fruits, and pasta. And let me tell you, I received so many jealous views!
Fun fact: Did you know that airplane food often tastes different than the same meal on the ground? The low humidity and air pressure in the cabin can affect your taste buds, making flavors seem less intense. Airlines need to adjust recipes to enhance the taste at 35,000 feet!
Prioritizing your well-being during business travel is not just about feeling good – it significantly impacts your productivity and overall satisfaction. By incorporating these five habits into your routine, you´ll find that maintaining a healthy lifestyle on the road becomes not only achievable but also rewarding.
Here´s to your well-being on your next business adventure!
Merle
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