Real Talk: I was terrible at the beginning of 2016 about balancing traveling and my day-to-day routine. It took a few failed attempts to figure out what really worked for me.
In July, I found myself returning from a trip with a bad breakout, dry skin, feeling lazy and not ready to hit the ground running. I knew I had to find a balance, or routine. In all honesty, when traveling, I tend to splurge when eating out, order desserts (still dreaming of the brioche in Paris), and I don’t make every effort to find a gym to workout. But that’s okay. A few days off is good for the soul, and I make sure to walk everywhere when traveling.
By the end of 2016, I had found a pretty solid routine and I plan to stick to it throughout 2017. Let’s keep each other accountable. And please share any tips you have for resetting after a trip.
Go on a walk.
As soon as I have set my suitcase down at home, I make plans to get out the door again. I switch into some workout clothes, and off I go. It doesn’t have to be a strenuous walk, but long enough to enjoy fresh air and stretch your legs after a long walk. If you traveled with a partner, it’s also a fun time to recap your trip or stop by the grocery store to restock your fridge.
Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate.
Every article on traveling talks about the importance of hydrating after air travel. It’s so important. I have made a point to drink more water during the flight and purchase a fresh water for the cab ride home. I can tell such a difference in my skin and I wake up the next day feeling less groggy.
Sign up for Workout Classes.
No matter if you are traveling or not, after taking a few days off from the gym, it’s hard to get back into a routine. I try to sign up for 3-4 workout classes for the following week after a trip. Personally, I am huggge Soul-Cycle fan, but find a workout class that gets you motivated. It’s so much easier to complete a workout in a class (or with a friend), then going to the gym yourself. Plus, if I have spent $35 on a class, you bet that I’ll be there.
Pick up a Juice.
I know it may sound crazy, but I have found that picking up a fresh juice (or two) from Whole Foods, Real Good Juice, etc helps combat any sickness I may have picked up on the plane.
Unpack & Do Laundry.
Unpack your suitcase and do your laundry the very same day that you get home. I was horrible at this. Horrible. In fact, I would live out my suitcase at home for more days than our trip. When your suitcase is put away, it’s out of mind, and you’ll be ready to go on with the new week.
Face Masks.
Never underestimate the power of a face mask. I swear by mid-flight, my face starts to break out like crazy and puffy eyes start to show. However, if I apply a face mask the night I return, the next morning my skin is back to normal. The face mask doesn’t have to be anything crazy, this one and this one are some of my favorites.
Clear your Schedule.
Lastly, don’t make huge plans the day after you return from a trip. Forcing yourself to go, go, go will not give your body time to rest and reset from your trip. If you do want to make plans with friends, schedule a workout class or take a long walk together!
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