ForkBytes

Note: This piece first appeared in the July 2005 issue of Clark Wellness ForkBytes.

You’ve selected the perfect relaxing summer vacation destination. Whether you’re going to a tropical beach, a beautiful national or state park, a historic European city, or a chilly Alaskan cruise, you’re ready to get away from it all and enjoy being in a different environment. But what about getting there?

You don’t want the stress of the airport, train station, or interstate at the beginning and end of your vacation to overshadow all the fun and relaxing in the middle. Try these ideas to make your travel experience as beneficial as the vacation itself!

1. Change your thinking. A positive attitude is key for maintaining serenity in a stressful environment. Think of your vacation as starting before you even leave your house—when you’re packing, when you’re on your way to the airport, when you’re waiting for your flight, when you’re on the flight, etc.—and use every opportunity to see your experiences in a positive light. For example, if your flight is delayed, think, “Hooray! Now I get extra time to read this great mind-candy trashy paperback!” or “Yes!! Extra time to enjoy the airport people-watching!”

2. Plan ahead. Knowing where you’re going and how to get there will help you calm down the little voice in the back of your mind that is nervous about an unfamiliar environment. Research ahead of time how to use public transportation to get from the train station to your hotel, or know the exact address to tell your taxi driver (and bring a map!). It’s helpful to put all your trip information, including itinerary and confirmation numbers, into one central document so you’re not trying to keep track of lots of scraps of paper.

3. Breathe. If something stressful happens during your trip, take at least three long, slow, deep breaths before you react. It only takes seconds, but it moves your body from a freaked-out state to a calm state immediately, and you’ll be much better equipped to deal with the situation if you feel calm.

4. Water. Water is important all the time, but it’s essential to drink plenty of clean water during travel. Planes, cars, and trains are all extremely dehydrating (so are hotel rooms, by the way). Carry a water bottle with you at all times. I like to add a few drops of Bach’s Rescue Remedy (a homeopathic product available in health food stores) to my bottle to help alleviate stress!

5. Food. Plan to bring food with you. Travel is notorious for causing the munchies, and travel centers (such as airports and bus stations) are unfortunately notorious for not offering health-supportive choices! Sandwiches, fruit, and nuts are all great, portable choices.

6. Entertainment. Waiting is part of the reality of modern travel, and reading material, music, and books on tape are all great tools for keeping yourself and your travel companions amused. I also love to play the Squiggle Game, either alone or with a partner (it’s great for partners of any age!). You draw a squiggle on a piece of paper, and then your partner makes your squiggle into a drawing. Then he or she draws you a squiggle and you trade.

7. Stretch. Human bodies don’t like to be cramped in a train, plane, or car seat for hours. Be sure to get up and walk around as much as possible, and also stretch while seated. A few neck and shoulder rolls and seated twists can help keep your body awake during a long period of sitting.

8. Wear layers. Even on the hottest summer days, planes, trains, and buses tend to be quite cool (part of this is your body’s response to being sedentary for such a long time), so be sure to bring a light jacket for a comfortable trip.

Arrive at your destination relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to enjoy! Have a great trip!