Many of us have to travel for work. And with Spring Break just around the corner, some will be lucky enough to be planning a family vacation! Microorganisms love airplanes. Add to that, a jet-lagged immune system and the fact that vacations are a time to let loose, enjoy yourself and do some things that aren’t necessarily a part of your typical routine. It’s a recipe for illness. The good news is that keeping healthy while on vacation is possible.
Stay Healthy In-Transit
Essential oils and herbs not only promote health and wellness, they also fit in a plastic zip lock bag so you can breeze through airport security. The Four Thieves blend is an aromatic recipe that will help to purify the air around you and support your lungs and sinuses. There are variations, but we like a blend of cinnamon, clove, lemon, and rosemary essential oils to promote health. When you’re sitting on an airplane just inhale this delightful aroma or make an aromatic spray to mist yourself once you’re off the plane.
To make an aromatic spray:
• Fill a clean, dry mini spray bottle with 4 ounces of pure distilled water.
• Carefully put 3 or 4 drops of your selected blend of essential oils into the spray bottle using a dropper.
• Tightly close the bottle and shake vigorously to combine.
Plan Ahead
Isn’t it always those times when you’re not prepared that you make a less-than-healthy decision when it comes to meal time. If you forgot to grocery shop for lunch items it’s easy to hit the fast food joint around the corner. The same goes for vacationing. While it’s wonderful to taste local cuisine and explore different establishments in the area, planning ahead for your day can help you map out where you might be able to enjoy a healthy lunch, or where you can find a grocery store for a non-fried afternoon treat. This will not only help you make healthy decisions throughout your trip, it can save you money as well.
Keep the Water Flowing
While it’s important to drink an adequate amount of water every day, you’ll want to increase your intake while on vacation to stay hydrated and feeling tip-top. If part of your vacation involves sightseeing in the sun for several hours, you’re going to need more water than usual. And if your vacation includes enjoying a few adult beverages, it’s all the more important to keep a glass of water nearby. Studies suggest that increasing your water intake can improve your mood and energy level, so be sure to pack a bottle of H2O and get the most of your vacation.
Protect Your Skin
There are many things that you can do on vacation to improve your current healthy status, but nothing is more important for your long-term health than protecting your skin from the sun. A sunburn can occur in as quickly as 15 minutes, with the sun usually at its hottest anytime between 10am – 4pm (prime vacation activity time). An effective sunscreen should be water-resistant, have an SPF of at least 30, and be broad spectrum. It’s important to lather up before you head out but if you forget, take other measures such as wearing long sleeves and a hat. And remember about your eyes as extended exposure to UV rays can lead to eye damage.
Keep it Moving
Although it’s great to have some time to sleep in and lounge around while on vacation, it’s important to schedule time to be active as well. After all, spending several days laying by the pool can actually leave you feeling lethargic, rather than refreshed, when you return to your normal routine. Do some research to see about nearby hikes or biking trails, or go for an invigorating morning walk. You can also use wearable fitness trackers like the Fit Bit to monitor your progress.
If you are heading out of town for Spring Break, travel safe and follow a few of our tips so you return refreshed and with your good health intact.
