Traveling during the holidays is both exhilarating and stressful. So many people trying to get to their friends, families and vacations. Expectations are high so disappointments are bound to happen. Mentally and physically prepare yourself by anticipating that things won’t go the way you want them to and allow things to flow as they need to. When there’s expectations, there’s resistance. When there’s acceptance, there’s flow. Here are a few tips and poses that help me flow and accept the changes that come my way when I travel throughout the year and especially during the holiday season.
Traveling Tips
- Set an intention for your travels. Something that reminds you to stay grounded. It’s easy to get ungrounded physically and energetically. Be positive, stay calm and take deep breaths when things don’t go the way you expect them to.
- If you tend to get anxious in take offs and landings on a plane, bring a mala and repeat the mantra that helps you stay focused. You could say “Om” or “I am safe.”
- Stretch and engage your core whenever you can.
- Be the weirdo that stretches at the gate and while you’re waiting for your luggage at baggage claim.
If you’re on the plane, get up and find a little space to stretch your shoulders and twist your back. - Stay hydrated!
- When you get to the hotel room do some pigeon poses to stretch your hips and put your legs up on your headboard while laying in bed to reverse the blood flow and prevent swollen ankles.
- Bring your Vedanta (or yoga philosophy) book with you on the plane. It’s a good time to catch up and reflect.
Traveling Poses
- Ankle and Neck Circles: Rotate in one direction 5 times and then switch sides while sitting on the plane.
- #4 Hip Stretch: Place your right ankle on top of your left thigh and press the knee down to stretch your right hip. Hold for 5 breaths. Switch sides.
- Seated Cat Cow: Bring your hands to your knees. Inhale arch your spine and look up. Exhale round your back and look at your belly button. 5 deep breaths.
