Living in Bali these last six months has taught me a lot about health while travelling.
Having access to the world’s healthiest foods, green juice at every corner, jamu juice, a traditional turmeric drink with coconut water, ginger and lime known to be highly antiinflammatory… yoga, and an abundance of organic plant based goodness. But there’s always another side.
I’ve seen many come and go with food sickness, overindulgence, excess alcohol consumption and eating all kinds of street foods, fried foods and unhealthy choices.
The typical vacation plethora. Here’s some tips when travelling to maintain your health.
1. Morning workouts. Eight minute workout apps are a true hit. Getting in a morning sweat is key and no need for big days at the gym. Remember, consistency is better than longevity.
If you can commit to doing these in the mornings, your days will be better spent and enjoyed with a more positive frame of mind to enjoy all the sites you are taking in.
If you don’t have a buddy, get up 15 minutes before anyone else to get this in. It truly sets the tone for your day.
2. Drink lots of water. Pack water bottles with you to ensure you are staying hydrated in order to avoid excess eating.
3. Have your emergency essential oils on hand: Lavender for any cuts and scratches, tea tree for a disinfectant, peppermint to stay fresh midday by rubbing on your temples and around your neck.
Oil of oregano is a good one to have on hand to aid in digestion and acts as a good antibacterial agent.
And a few drops of grapefruit essential oil in a sparkling water not only adds some beautiful flavor, but helps ward off pathogens as well.
4. Have activated charcoal on hand. A must pack in case of any food poisoning. There’s not a lot in pharmacies for food poisoning and you can pack a container of activated charcoal with you helps reduce gas, bloating, minimize hangovers, helps remediate against mold in the body and can be used in high doses, around 25 grams according to the University of Michigan Health Systems in the case of food poisoning.
5. Choose activities that require some physical activity
6. Don’t forget to nap. This is key. Your vacation is meant to be enjoyed and napping or just “being” is all a part of that. Give yourself permission to unwind and relax.
Be sure to take some time to yourself each evening to reflect on your day. Being present on vacation is also an important piece of enjoying your vacation. It’s still life, so don’t worry about some of the mishaps that may occur, but make it a priority to check in with yourself each day, show your appreciation for the day and keep up with your self nourishment to enjoy the experience that much more.
Kristin Fraser, BSc, is a holistic nutritionist and local freelance writer. Her column appears every second Thursday. She can be reached at kristin@somethingtochewon.ca.