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Travel Tips to Relax & Eliminate Stress
Traveling is not easy. Traveling alone or with family, taking a summer trip or traveling for the holidays, and traveling by car or air or rails can be a huge undertaking. Here are some tips for an easier travel.
Too much Sitting: Whether traveling by car or air or rails, you tend to do a lot of sitting. Even if you are traveling first class or in your decked-out car seat, prolonged sitting can cause strain on your body. The body is forced into an awkward space which limits motion and causes certain pressure and force onto your body. This can cause blood flow restriction, swelling of your hands and feet, and tightening of the muscles. To help yourself, treat traveling as a type of physical activity. Stretch before getting on the plane or taking a road trip and stretch after the trip. Take frequent breaks and walk around. While sitting down do stretching exercises, starting with your toes then your feet and ankles, and moving up through your body and up to your head and neck.
Eliminate Stress: Breathe deeply and slowly several times. Plan ahead and plan for any unforeseen circumstances. Check the weather, the road conditions, the traffic, and your airplane departure times as your travel date gets closer. Keep a list of emergency contacts and other information on your hotel, car rental, airline carrier, and any other information that you may need together. Keep all your travel documents together.
Relax: Use relaxation techniques. Load your iPod with relaxing music for your trip. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes when traveling. Dress in layers because the car or the plane temperature may become too warm or too cold. Use ear plugs. Use a neck pillow and a back support pillow to keep your body in it's proper position. Don't forget to breathe deeply and slowly several times.
Traveling by Plane: Know the TSA restrictions. Know your airline carrier's guidelines regarding checked and carry-on luggage. If you can't lift your carry-on over your head without straining yourself, then check the bag. On a long plane ride, remember to change your body position, massage your legs, and if you can, keep your feet and legs elevated as much as possible to keep the circulation moving and to decrease any muscle tightness.
Traveling by Car: Have your vehicle serviced and checked out before taking it for a road trip. Join any road clubs for that peace of mind. Have an emergency car kit. Keep an updated road map handy, even if you do have a GPS navigating system. When packing the car, load the heavier items on the bottom and make sure the bags do not obstruct your views. If traveling in cold weather, pack extra blankets, food and water. Change your seat settings to the most comfortable for you and use a back support cushion. Take breaks every couple of hours and walk around and stretch before getting on the road again.
Disclaimer: This site and its services are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment. See full disclaimer.
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