Finding Peace on Plane

As I leave my mid-twenties and soar towards thirty at the speed of light, the number of weddings I attend each year continues to grow. My boyfriend and I have attended some really amazing weddings this year and traveled to places we would have never visited otherwise.

It was during our last trip to Carmel California for a friend's wedding that I felt I had finally learned how to take a balanced vacation. Attempting to divide my time between working VERY hard and playing VERY hard had become unhealthy. I would spend my weeks working hard on my business and feeling guilty taking time out for myself. When on vacation on the other hand I would drink, eat and sleep way too much returning to feel unrested and really unfulfilled.

I was half way through Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat Pray Love on the way to Carmel and had balance and thoughtfulness on my mind. When I arrived in CA I felt extremely relaxed (after actually meditating on the flight) and did not have the urge to fulfill every unmet need I have had for the past six months...including guzzling down bottles of wine and avoiding vegetables at all costs. I wanted a healthy, happy and enjoyable vacation.

The following tips are how I actually felt like I had been on vacation when I returned:

1. Spend time meditating or journaling on your trip. It does not have to be your normal routine but, if you can fit in 10-20 minutes here and there (either while traveling or first thing in the morning) you will feel more connected all day long.

2. Try to break a sweat. Exercise is usually the last thing on my mind when I'm out of town but, learning about the town on foot while taking a brisk walk or jogging gets those endorphins going.

3. Enjoy the local cuisine in moderation. On the Fisherman's Wharf I had clam chowder and shrimp salad but got the soup/salad combo to avoid eating too much. Order appetizers or soups & salads as meals because ordering a full restaurant meal 3 times a day tends to be way too much food.

4. Don't spend outside your means. If possible start putting away money for your trip months and months in advance so avoid feeling guilty on your trip. Take advantage of the continental breakfasts and only buy those things that you really LOVE!!

5. Stay Present - Take a few deep breaths now and then and make sure you can feel your feet on the ground. Soak in th scenery and take time to really observe your surroundings.

Happy travels this holiday season!