8 Ways To Say Goodbye To Post Travel Fatigue

After returning home from a  jam-packed trip with my two teenage girls, I found myself weary and tired. I have to admit that I have never been a world-class traveler. Being sensitive has its downside, and post travel fatigue is one of them.

It is easy to get out of our routine when traveling and to overdo it as we try to fit in everything.

My body was aching and my mind was exhausted.   As we age, it gets harder to recover from overdoing. It takes intention and loving kindness toward one’s self to get back on track.

Here are eight ways to say goodbye to post travel fatigue:

1. Hydrate

   Put a large container of water beside the bed.  When you awaken during the night and first thing in the morning, drink up! It is so easy when traveling (especially when flying) to get dehydrated, so replenish fluids whenever you can.

2. Gentle Yoga in the Morning

   Take time to wake slowly if possible. Do some light stretching and deep breathing while still in bed.  This gets the kinks out and moves energy around the body.

3. Practice Abhyanga or Ayurvedic Self-Massage

   If you do not practice this self-massage ritual, now may be the time to start. Here is the short version. Place some sesame seed oil in a container of hot water and allow it to warm. Turn your shower to hot and let it get steamy.  If you have a place to sit inside your shower, step in; if not, find a place to savor the steam. Fold an old towel that you don’t mind getting oily to sit on. Apply a small amount of oil to your entire body. Skip your head and your feet if you are concerned about oily hair or slipping. Rub in the oil and relax.

4. Warm Water Soothes the Soul

   Step into a nice warm shower and let the water flow over your body. Stay present with the sensations.  Scan your body and consciously breathe into any places still holding tension as you soften with each exhale.

5. Nourish With Foods

   Eat a light and nourishing breakfast. A protein and some fruit do the trick for me. Say a blessing and stay present as you eat.

6. Take Time For Tea

   Have your tea. Green tea is a great option.  I enjoy drinking Sencha or Gyrokuyo with a little bit of Monkey-Picked-Oolong. Green tea is rich in catechins, antioxidants that have numerous health benefits.   Green tea has been shown to improve various aspects of brain function, including improved mood, reaction time and memory. Sip slowly and savor. Do some more deep breathing and recall the greatest moments of your trip.

7. Be Mindful

   Sit and be mindful. Find a comfortable seat and get still for a few minutes. Bring your focus to your breath.

8. Express Gratitude

   As you say goodbye to post travel fatigue, give thanks for another day. Think about the best parts of your travel journey, your ability to recover, and for what lies ahead.

Hopefully, by now you will be smiling, recalling fond memories, and ready to enter the new day rested and restored!