Re-Entering your Rhythm : Five Tips to Ease Into Life After Vacation
- Rebecca Pappa MPS, LCAT
- Nov 7, 2019
- 2 min read
Tell me if this sounds familiar. You have a vacation around the corner, and life's rhythm spikes. It takes on a frenzied hue, packing in work , meeting deadlines, Moving quickly, uncontrollably. The one thing driving you to that finish line, is , well for me, two weeks walking through the Spanish countryside, and a few days lounging on Sicialin shores. The sweet promise of change. An altered rhythm that is slow, restful, and rejuvenating.
The problem is, the amount of stress and energy exerted in the weeks before leaves your system depleted. I am one notorious for getting sick on the plane, and spending my first few days face first in a box of tissues. This is largely due to my struggle with finding and maintaining a work life balance that boldly defies New York's pace. A place that values ambition above all else.
Taking a few days to heal, my body finally relaxes into the flow of reflection and rest. I breathe easily. I write. I stretch. I explore. I marvel at landscapes. Most importantly I find connection, with myself, and with my loved ones.
Then I am dropped back into life, and race into responsibility in a way that startles the system all over again. Well at least... I used to. Working on maintaining the post travel glow has been at the forefront of my mind. Here are five tips that I have discovered to re- enter life rhythm with grace and ease.
1. Give your self Book End Days :
Take the day before you leave for your trip, and the day after you return OFF. Spend time packing with intention, resting, honoring your body's needs. Do yoga, clean your home, revel in some self care.
Spend the day you arrive unpacking, preparing for your week ahead. Restock your home with nourishing foods. Travel depletes our bodies, spend time considering what you need to feel grounded and ready for work.
2. Create Space to process your trip.
Journaling is a wonderful way to reflect upon the moments that stood out in your travels. What moved you? What challenged you? How can you integrate these lessons into your life?
3. Exercise.
Because Jet lag is hard, and exercise aids our bodies to regulate. It helps us get more restful sleep. Take time to move your body regularly when you return. Even if it is 15 minutes of Stretching to start your day.
4. Support your body with supplements.
Know what supplements work for your body. Here is a great link to an article written by Nutritionist, Abra Pappa on her 5 must have travel supplements.
5. Take Stock.
Make a list of activities you engaged in on your trip that felt fulfilling. Is there space for that in everyday life? Did you read more? Watch TV less? Walk more? Sit at a cafe and linger over your coffee? Did you take a cooking class? Try new cuisine? How can you lean in to showing up for yourself more consistently? Does your hometown offer the same experiences?
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