Flights
Travel stress isn’t unique to flying but the whole ‘boarding pass, passport, check in and security queues, connecting flight’ thing can add an extra level of drama. Have something with you to help you destress – a book, Rescue Remedy, a soothing podcast, your favourite radio show… whatever works for you. Make full use of wheeled luggage to minimise the stress and strain on your back and shoulders. Four wheels are best as they minimise drag and can turn the suitcase into a useful stabiliser for people who are less mobile.
Travelling with small children can be stressful and hard work. If you find yourself sitting next to a young family, a smile and an offer to help goes a long way to supporting stressed parents.
We don’t normally carry a suitcase, a backpack and a holdall. Do you really need it all? Your back will appreciate you packing light, even if you have to do some laundry while you’re away.
Long flights are also tough on your back, joints and circulation. Keep hydrated and do a few in-seat exercises – roll your neck, shoulders and ankles for example. The hydration will also make you walk up and down the aisle to the loo! Try high-knee marching to the loo to add a bit more cardio. These days flying often seems to result in getting sick afterwards. Or maybe the germs circulate at the airport where we can be waiting for hours. Support your immune system with a boost of vitamin C and zinc. Wearing a mask may reduce the risk of infection transmission, so be considerate to others if you have a cough or cold.
Long Journeys
If you’re travelling by land, long journeys can be just as stressful and hard on your body. Are you sitting comfortably? Have a read of this guide to setting up your car seat to minimise the stress on your body. Take breaks regularly if you are in the car, or get up and move around if you are on a train. Listen to podcasts to relieve boredom and stress – some of my favourites are Feel Better Live More, Zoe Science & Nutrition, How to Fail with Elizabeth Day, The Rest is History, Accidental Gods. BBC Sounds has the entire archive of Desert Island Discs, as well as many other great shows. You could try a guided meditation if you’re not driving. Have a look on the free Insight Timer app for a wide range of guides and topics.
Novel Activities
One of the most fun things to do on holiday is to try a new activity. Have a go at surfing, paddle boarding, pony trekking, paragliding, hiking… it’s so tempting! Even on a city break you’ll probably walk twice as much as usual, and camping is not something we do every week. Be prepared with suitable clothing and shoes, and plenty of water. Hopefully you won’t be injured but you might have sore muscles and blisters. Take a first aid kit to cope with these and for minor injuries, headaches, sunburn, etc.
When exercising in hot weather, what we sweat out can exceed our fluid intake resulting in the loss of minerals (sodium, magnesium and potassium) from our bodies. This could result in headaches and muscle cramps. The way to balance your fluid intake is to start with water but then move on to an electrolyte drink halfway through your exercise. You could make your own by adding a pinch of sea salt to fresh lemon juice, water and a teaspoon of honey.
Festivals
Mud, crowds, late nights, loud music, alcohol and drugs, poor sleep, poor food hygiene, sunburn, poor skin hygiene, dehydration, no loo roll… what fun! Most festivals are now well organised to cope with many of these potential problems, but go prepared, have fun and come home tired but happy and well!
