How To Stay Healthy When Traveling
It could not happen at a worse time. We are ready for vacation - relaxation and time with family. Yet, just as we settle in at our destination, we get sick. There are many reasons people get sick on vacation. The stress of preparation for travel is trying on our immune systems, there’s lots of disease floating around in winter, and sometimes the transportation itself is enough to bring on an illness. With a little planning, you can stay healthy and get more out of the holidays.
Start with a Fit Immune System
A couple of weeks before you leave, start boosting your immune system. Vitamin C, Echinacea, and garlic are all winter cold-busters that start helping before you’re sick. I like to buy Vitamin C powder in bulk–1/8 t. a few times a day in a glass of water is a refreshing way to get the benefits of this powerful antioxidant. The powder is less expensive than pills, and you can control how much you take. You can eat garlic in your food, but if you cook it, it loses some of its medicinal benefits, so consider buying garlic capsules. These have the added bonus of no garlic odor. You can find Echinacea in tea, pills and tinctures.
Carry-Ons for Comfort
A great way to help you stay healthy is to try to stay comfortable during your travel. Pack things that will allow you to rest during your flight, drive or ride. Here are some things to take in your carry-on:
- If you’re flying, consider bringing your own food. Fresh, organic fruits and vegetables are energizing and nourishing. I like to bring those pre-washed “baby” carrots, some oranges and a few healthy snack bars with protein. If you have special dietary requirements and will be eating the airline food, don’t forget to call at least 48 hours in advance to request your special meal.
- Bring a large bottle of water. Staying hydrated is difficult with dry airplane air, you need to drink a lot more than normal, and the flight attendants may not always be able to get to you when you need them. Alcohol, caffeine and soft drinks are not as good for staying hydrated.
- Some moisturizing lotion will help keep your hands and nails from drying out. Apply it several times during the flight, including each time after you wash your hands.
- Bring a wash cloth. If you place it damp, in a Ziploc bag, you won’t even have to leave your seat to rinse your face and hands.
- I find that a small spray or atomizer bottle of water is a very refreshing way to rehydrate my face. Spritz yourself while sitting at your seat. You can also add a drop or two of essential oil to the bottle to make it even more refreshing. Try lavender or lemon. They are both in our Life’s Essential Oils kit.
Use the time during your ride or flight to relax. Enjoy the fact that you have nothing to do other than be “transported.” Take the time to prepare yourself for the excitement ahead.
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