This post is written in partnership with Canvas Credit Union. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
With travel on the rise, let’s chat about ways to continue your wellness routine on the road in Colorado while traveling. Fortunately, maintaining healthy habits in a different state (or country) this summer isn’t as challenging as you might think. And in the long run, your body and mind will thank you. After all, wellness and consistency go hand-in-hand. What you do on a daily basis is what makes you well — now, and in the future. From prioritizing sleep to eating nourishing foods, health is all about simple, everyday choices. These are what lead to overall health.
Eating well while traveling
Cultivating a healthy lifestyle — beyond the confines of your home in Colorado — is a matter of making conscious decisions that will positively impact your wellbeing. Said differently: when possible, choose health. Oftentimes, that requires a bit of preparation beforehand. Specifically in terms of packing, bring snacks that are high in protein, low in added sugar, and don’t contain artificial ingredients. Being prepared will keep hunger at bay and help you save money. If it’s in your bag, you’ll be more inclined to reach for your healthy snack than grab something that’s expensive and less nourishing at the airport.
planning ahead with healthy snacks
When it comes to healthy snacks, I always have a protein bar on hand. My favorites are Oatmega (grass-fed whey), RXBAR (vegetarian), and No Cow (vegan). No Cow is a local Colorado brand too! I also like packing an almond butter and banana sandwich, energy bites, or a bag of carrots and Flackers. I’m never without my reusable utensils too. My other go-to snacks are homemade trail mix or NuttZo nut butter packets. They’re delicious on their own, with fruit, or on top of oatmeal.
Better-For-You Fast Food Options
Speaking of oatmeal, there are plenty of healthy options at fast-food restaurants! At Starbucks, for example, you can order their plain oatmeal and add trail mix and a NuttZo packet on top. This is a well-rounded breakfast with complex carbs and healthy fats for energy and satiation. Starbucks’ egg cups are also a great source of protein as a breakfast option.
If you’re stopping by In-N-Out, ask for your burger ‘protein style’ (wrapped in lettuce). At Chipotle, build a bowl or salad with protein, fajita veggies, beans or brown rice, salsa, and guac. Ultimately, think about hitting these three macronutrients for your meals: protein, fat, and carbs. That might look like a salad with grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and a local cheese, tacos on corn tortillas with guac, or a grain bowl with tofu. These three powerhouse macronutrients are the key to satiation, energy, and muscle growth. Last but not least, be sure to stay hydrated. I always bring a reusable water bottle and electrolyte packets. Traveling is dehydrating, after all.
Mental Health Tips While Traveling
If getting back into the swing of travel feels daunting, I’m right there with you. After spending a lot of time at home in Colorado, the thought of traveling through an airport or packing for a road trip brings up mixed emotions. To take care of your mental health before (and during) travel, think about the things that keep you calm and grounded. Then, schedule them into your itinerary. For some, that might be exercise. For others, that might be a daily meditation practice, cutting back on caffeine, or taking anti-anxiety medication. Whatever they are, make them non-negotiables on the day of your travel (or during your vacation).
Days before you leave, create a stress-relief “tool kit” for yourself. Download a meditation app (like Aura). Prep your snacks. Talk to your mental health care provider before you leave. Etc. At the end of the day, travel can immensely benefit your mental health. It breaks you away from the daily grind and opens your mind to new possibilities.
To read the rest of my post — including five ways to stay well while traveling — hop over to my feature on Canvas Credit Union’s blog.
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