Irene’s travel tips
How to stay calm and grounded in the midst of travel chaos.
Destination unknown
As borders begin to open up and we begin to start traveling again I’m reminded of how traveling can be quite stressful especially, with the addition Covid protocols and effects it has on our mind and bodies.
Travel, whether it's by car, train or plane will aggravate the mobile quality of Vata dosha. The element of air in our bodies that is responsible for our nervous system, large intestines, dry and cold qualities. Which can result in digestive issues like bloating, excessive gas, constipation, stress and anxiety. It can also cause dryness in the body, eyes, skin nasal passages, dehydration, body aches, lower back discomfort and sleeping problems.
Pre-travel (Carry-on)
• Essential oil roll on with lavender helps to relax on an evening flight and peppermint, citrus, eucalyptus helps stimulate and wake me up on an overnight flight the following morning.
• Rose toner spray keeps my skin moisturized.
• Ayurvedic nasal drops- helps trap allergens, lubricates nasal passages.
• Herbal teas that help aid digestion fennel, ginger, cinnamon, lavender.
I recommend eating a good home cooked meal before heading to the airport. We all know how healthy food options can be limited at the airport.
Pack healthy snacks for the plane. Avoid too many dry snacks like crackers, popcorn, breads etc. That will only increase your chances of constipation.
Pack a refillable water bottle. You want to avoid plastic bottle water as much as possible. Plastic has been linked to hormone disruptors and health problems.
Sleeping mask, socks, neck pillow, shawl to keep yourself warm.
Travel yoga mat. I love the one from the brand Manduka. It’s thin, light, doesn’t take up space and is easy to travel with.
During Travel
• If you are sensitive to a lot of different energies and noises, noise canceling headphones are a must! I usually listen to calming music, a meditation app, or audio book. They help keep me calm in a chaotic noisy airport. I also use that time to turn inward, close my eyes and practice breathing exercises inhaling and exhaling slowly and deeply.
• Wear layers to keep warm.
• Avoid eating a lot of raw foods, cold foods, highly processed foods, dry foods breads, pastries, crackers, cookies etc. I know this can be tricky because airports are known for all these foods. But if you have to eat there lean more towards warm cooked foods, soups, oatmeal.
• Drink warm water to help aid in digestion. This small act makes such a big difference!
• If you have a layover look for a quiet, less crowded area where you can do light stretching. This will help with circulation and release muscle tension.
Unfortunately, my digestion always get thrown off balance when I travel. For many reasons, whether it’s a big time change, not remembering to drink enough water, eating foods out of my regular diet. I usually have an issue with travelers constipation. My secret Ayurvedic supplement that I never travel without is called Triphala. Its natural, made from a combination of three plants that help aid in the digestion process. It’s not a laxative and not habit forming. In fact, I take it every night before I go to bed because of the many other benefits it has for the body. (I’ll be talking more about Triphala in a separate post)
Arrival to destination
Finally, when I arrive to my destination I always try to connect with nature to help ground myself by finding a nearby park or garden. If I’ll be spending a couple days in one place I try to have a similar morning and nighttime routine as I do when I’m back home.
• I wake up when the sun comes up, drink a glass of warm water to lubricate and stimulate my digestion. Stretch.
• To help me sleep at night a very grounding practice is an Ayurvedic Abhyanga (self massage). By massaging your body especially your hands and feet with oil it helps to calm your nervous system and prepares your body for a good night sleep.
• Use essential oils of lavender to calm the mind
• Turn off all stimulating devices 1 hour before going to bed
• Take Triphala after meals with a glass of warm water before bedtime
With every trip that I take I’m constantly thinking about how I can improve the experience. So this list will constantly be updated as I continue to navigate traveling the world.
Here’s to safe and healthy travels!