Healthy Travel Tips To Feel Better In Your Body
It's taken some time to get this down, but I've learned a few things on-the-go.
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As I touched on in last week’s Weekly Hurdle newsletter, I’m really on the move lately. Between August 1 and September 31, I’ll be traveling to five different countries. Some for work, some for pleasure. With that said, I’ve had to really zero in on strategies to feel best in my body when I’m away from home. Admittedly, it’s been a lot of trial and error. While I’m not the kind of person that likes to walk away from a local delicacy (read: Give me bucatini in Florence, fondue in Chamonix, and croissants in Paris) — I do know that I have to consume in moderation and practice mindful eating. I do know how I feel about regular movement. I do know about the importance of getting enough sleep. So this week, I’m sharing a little bit about the principles I’ve adopted and practice when I’m on the road to feel my best:
Stay Active: I know that it’s critical for me to move first thing in the morning. That means that just like when I’m home in Brooklyn, I’m planning out what that looks like in advance. Maybe it’s not my go-to strength session or run, but rather a long walk around whatever city I’m in with some coffee to get fresh air. I also like to make sure I know what’s available to me before I arrive, whether that be studio classes, hotel gym, or outdoor activities. With that said, I’m often using Classpass on the road! Try it out, and get a free Classpass trial with 20 credits by clicking here.
Prioritize Sleep: I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you that I look to see if hotels have blackout shades when booking. I’m super light sensitive, and I also know that a dark room is a key ingredient for optimal ZzZs (as is temperature, ideally between 60 and 68 degrees according to the Cleveland Clinic). Sometimes, it’s hard for me to get as much sleep as I want because of work demands — so, ensuring I can get quality sleep is a high priority for me. Other things I’m mindful of when it comes to quality: How much alcohol I’m consuming as well as phone/laptop usage and TV time close to bedtime.
Mindful Eating: This is something I’ve really focused on lately. Like I said, I’m not one to turn things down. However, I am one to do a pulse check on how I feel before and during a meal to gauge my hunger levels and do an honest inquiry with myself. When ordering off a menu, I think about why I’m leaning into a certain option, and if that choice is motivated by other factors (emotions like sadness, stress, or frustration). This helps me pick foods I really want to eat, regardless of whether they’re “healthy” or not. Essentially, be more intentional with my choices.
Hydration: Carrying a reusable water bottle has changed the game for me on long flights (and beyond). I always ask flight attendants to fill it up when they come by offering a beverage service, making sure to drink at least three on flights 6+ hours. On top of that, LMNT packets are a must. When traveling, I go for two each day. Get a free sample pack of all flavors with your next purchase by clicking here.
Self-Care and Relaxation: Sometimes, self-care while traveling means taking a down beat from touristing. I love to see sights just like the next person, but I’ve become a big fan of picking a night to order in (or grab and go) — when I know I’m going to be go-go-go. Other self-care highlights: Keeping up with my journaling practice (or resuming it when I’ve been slacking), unplugging when I have the opportunity — especially in a totally different time zone, and even scheduling massages or sauna time.
Remember that feeling better in your body during travel involves finding a balance between staying active, nourishing your body with healthy choices, and giving yourself the rest and relaxation you truly need. Listen to your gut. Adapt these strategies to fit you and your lifestyle, and your travels will be better for it.
Keep hurdling,
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
I’m Listening To: Nike’s Sneaky Sneaker Thieves on The Journal
A friend recently turned me onto The Journal from Wall Street Journal, and it’s become a part of my regular podcast rotation. This particular episode’s about how Nike’s supply chain is under attack — crime rings are swiping valuable, limited-edition sneakers as the shoes make their way from factories to store shelves, often staying steps ahead of police.
I’m Watching: Marathon at the World Athletics Championships
You know I love me some Keira D’Amato. She’s racing tomorrow morning at 1 a.m. ET (anyone else having World Cup flashbacks?) against the best of the best from around the globe.
Gear I’m Loving: Bandit Stamina Compression Race Crop
Dropping at 11 a.m. ET today, this race crop is Hurdle maroon so you know I have my eyes on it. With a phone pocket in the back and reflective branding front and center, it’s a sleek pick for your workout top rotation. Bonus: Bandit is offering a discount on their Membership this week at $100 instead of $125. As a Member, you'll receive a variety of benefits ranging from a standing 10 percent store discount to behind the scenes access of Bandit via their Instagram Close Friends and Member meetups in 20+ global cities in 2023. Remember, the drop is at 11 a.m. ET today, August 25!
Quote I’m Loving: “We live, we learn, but most of all we keep trying.” — Coco Gauff, who will be playing in the U.S. Open when it begins on Monday, August 28.
Thanks to AG1 — the daily Foundational Nutrition supplement that supports whole-body health — for supporting Hurdle.
I drink it literally every day. I originally gave AG1 a try years ago because I was tired of taking so many supplements and wanted a single solution that supports my entire body and covers my nutritional bases. Plus, I was popping way too many gummy vitamins. I wanted better gut health, a boost (or similar) in energy, immune system support, and also wanted a supplement that actually tastes great. I shake it up every morning after my workout, and truly it makes me feel energized and confident knowing that I’m doing something good for my body by giving it the nutrition I deserve — including 75 whole food-sourced ingredients, prebiotics, probiotics, adaptogens, and superfoods.
If you want to take ownership of your health, it starts with AG1. Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase. Go to drinkAG1.com/hurdle.
NEW PODCAST EPISODE🎧: 263. Chase Ealey, World Champion Shot Putter
When world champion shot putter Chase Ealey was in high school, a journalist wrote about her athleticism — referring to her as “a Mack truck with a Porsche engine.” She knows he was trying to compliment her, but body shaming and comments on her size have unfortunately been a through line during her rise to the top.
In this week’s episode, Chase talks about how she rises above the criticism in pursuit of her best and addresses how she feels about body inclusivity and representation within media and editorial. Plus: She stresses the importance of being mindful of the people closest to her, what it felt like to sign her first Nike contract, and how she picks herself up during a tough #hurdlemoment to put her best foot forward 💫
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Another (weekly) Hurdle conquered. Catch you guys next week.
Obsessed with The Crown right now - a must watch. (if you haven't seen it already haha) - Happy New Year Emily! Love the re brand!