Last week, I got to travel to Italy, my favorite country in the world, with my mother and twin sister. It was the first time since becoming a mother that I had traveled for more than a couple of days without my kids and just for pleasure rather than work.
I couldn’t wait to have the opportunity to explore new places extensively by foot, to eat leisurely (and frequently!) at restaurants, to browse boutiques without needing to rush, to have long, uninterrupted conversations with friends, family and strangers, to soak up time with two of the people I love most.
I didn’t pack a pair of running shoes or multiple workout outfits. Instead, I packed one pair of walking shoes, a tiny capsule wardrobe and a healthy dose of “go with the flow.”
I didn’t plan my weekly workouts like I do at home either. On this trip, I worked out 1 time (for 8 minutes) and probably walked over 30 miles.
Did I feel the difference in my body of not doing my regular workouts and indulging in wine, bread, dairy and sugar all week? Big, fat YEP.
Did I freak out?
No, and here’s why.
1. Vacation shakes things up.
When you travel, you might have a significant time difference (hello, jet lag!), small hotel rooms or be traveling with a group of people. All of these things make it hard to completely control your schedule or your environment.
2. Vacations are meant to be enjoyed.
When you're traveling (especially to places known for their cuisine) enjoying the different cuisine can be a highlight of the trip. Let's face it - you don't go to Italy to eat salads at every meal. That said, you can balance it out. Order veggies when you can and don't go nuts on the sugary stuff!
3. Vacations are personal.
You do you. If sticking to your workout schedule is necessary for you, set and share your boundaries with others and do what you need. If you decide you want to take a break from the norm for this trip? Go for it! Or, find a balance, like I did, and incorporate some other ways to stay healthy, like walking everywhere.
4. Vacation mode is a mindset.
Train your mindset to understand that a vacation isn't the same as self-sabotage. Vacation can be a temporary pause. It's meant to be enjoyed, and it doesn't mean throwing all your hard work out the window. You can get back on track when you return.
So, go enjoy your vacation (as much as we're enjoying this gelato). :)
