When we hear the word “travel,” we often conjure up images of relaxation or restoration: sunbathing on idyllic beaches, strolling through world-class museums, visiting spirit-enriching monuments and temples. All too often we forget that travel – that is, the act of getting from place to place – can be grueling on our bodies.
Luckily, there are steps we can take to prevent an intercontinental flight or long-haul bus journey from wreaking havoc on our bodies – and they don’t involve purchasing a first-class ticket.
Move Around During the Journey
You know the old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”? By remembering to move around during your journey, you may be able to keep travel-related stiffness and discomfort at bay. If traveling by airplane, get up and prowl the aisles. Consider selecting an aisle seat to ensure a slumbering seatmate won’t restrict your movement. If traveling by bus or car, get out of the vehicle at every opportunity. Walk around to stretch your legs, or experiment with different types of movement. I remember reading that Tara Stiles practiced yoga at a gas station to break up a multi-state road trip; follow her lead.
Keep Hydrated
We all know how important hydration is to the human body, but so many of us, in an attempt to avoid using airline restrooms or having to make pit stops, avoid drinking water while on the road. Challenge yourself to buck this trend and fill up on water. You’ll thank yourself for it when the journey is over.
Use Yoga to Recover
Although you may want to flop onto the nearest flat surface when you reach your destination, but resist this temptation. Instead, practice some restorative yoga poses. Before you begin, sit for a moment in quiet reflection to determine which parts of your body need the most attention. For most of us, travel has the harshest impact on the back and legs. I always find my legs aching after travel, and therefore some of my go-to recovery positions include downward-facing dog, forward bend, seated forward bend, lizard, and pigeon. Listen to what your body is telling you and, above all, remember to be gentle.
What are your favorite yoga poses to recover from long-distance travel? Have any other tips? Let me know in the comments!