As a singer, the key to my career success is being where the action is. In the next few months, I will be attending the Grammy’s, New York Fashion Week, an Oscar Wilde Event to honor Irish talent, performing at showcases and then meeting press in London and Ireland. This schedule will involve traveling from my home base in Los Angeles. to Chicago, New York, Ireland and London.
I try to keep aware of how much traveling can take a toll on my body and overall health. Here are six ways I make sure to stay healthy while on the road:
Find Small Ways to Exercise:
When it comes to exercise on the road, think small! For example, always take the stairs, do squats or sit-ups while watching TV or perform standing push-ups against a counter. If you have time before your flight, go for a stroll around the airport. Also, be sure to do some stretches during the flight to keep the blood flowing.
Drink Alkaline Water:
Staying hydrated is key especially when flying. It not only keeps your mind clear, but I also find that I tend to snack less when I’m hydrated. In selecting the right drink, my preference is always alkaline water, which helps to neutralize acid in the blood stream and leads to increased oxygen levels, as well as improved energy and metabolism. Great options are Fiji or Penta bottled water.
Bring Healthy Snacks:
Before I travel, I always pack healthy portioned snacks like nuts and fruit. My favorite snacks are Meridian peanut bars, which also come in almond and cashew flavors. Before any flight, I stop at Whole Foods and stock up before heading to the airport. Prepackaging is important, as I often don’t have time to purchase these items at the airport.
Get Enough Sleep:
Those who know me know how important sleep is to me. I’ve found that not enough sleep makes me more susceptible to illness. Plus, when I’m well rested, I’m more efficient during the day. Do you find it difficult to sleep on the plane? It’s always a good idea to carry earplugs to ensure silence, as well as an eye mask to block out the light.
Start Your Day with a Green Juice:
To make sure I get my veggies, I always drink a green juice first thing in the morning! I love to make a ‘Green Goddess,’ which is made of spinach, kale, cucumber, celery and a touch of lemon. I also take a wheatgrass shot and E3 Live.
Take Time to Meditate:
If your schedule allows for only a few minutes of pause during the day, spend those minutes in complete silence with your eyes closed and mediate. When it comes to sitting on a plane or train, it can often be difficult to switch off with the chaos surrounding you. I’ve found it easiest to download a meditation podcast, pop on my headphones, sit back, relax and allow the sounds to transport me to a place of serenity and peace.
The Bottom Line
As we all know, travel and a change in routine often have a way of completely derailing our healthy lifestyles and making our fitness goals seem that much further away. If you’re lucky enough to be able to travel regularly but want to stick to your fitness plans, following these tips is a sure way to make your life and healthy living a whole lot easier. Safe travels!
Originally published at medium.com