How to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle While Abroad

Isabella Nino is a student at the University of Florida and is an ISA Featured Blogger. She is studying abroad with ISA in Madrid, Spain.

Everybody travels, whether is for business, vacation, or simply to get to know the world, either for a small business trip conference or a super cool new adventure halfway around the world. Travel can put real pressure on our body physically, mentally and emotionally. Even though the trip may be just for fun, stress and anxiety can come from breaking the routine. Luckily, there are several facts I took into consideration before coming abroad to Madrid, Spain.

With some planning and awareness, your journey can be as comfortable as staying at home, these effortless tips will ensure the serene of your journey.

Stay Hydrated

At high altitudes, the air inside the plane contains 66 percent less water than at level sea, making the plane environment drier than a desert! On the day of your departure you can start your journey with a reusable water bottle.  I used reusable because when you pass through TSA, you’re not allowed to go through with a plastic water bottle. This will be a great way to stay hydrated and save money! Also bring moisturizer; hydrating your face and lips will also make the journey feel more pleasant and relaxing. 

Keep Moving & Walk Everywhere

Be as active as possible. Regular exercise is one of the pillars of a healthy living. That is why considering a gym membership or buying a jumping rope and making a home workout can make you feel accomplished about your daily workout routine. Also try walking to your destinations. You may be surprised by how easy it is to keep your metabolism moving and having a peace of mind by just walking. Besides it will make it enjoyable and also help you to you get to know the city better!

Florence, Italy

Make Your Own Meals

Of course it’s hard when you’re in a new city and want to try every good restaurant you see on the streets, and maybe you think that you didn’t travel the world to eat your own cooking, but if you are staying for a long time then eating out is not going to be the healthiest lifestyle. That is why limiting yourself to eat out two days a week can be the best choice. When in a restaurant try picking the healthier options high protein, high fiber, low carbs, and plenty of fresh veggies which are easiest to digest. 

Homemade Tuna Salada with veggies and good fats

Breath, Sleep Meditate, Repeat

The most important thing to do while traveling is to sleep. Sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system. Sleeping 7-8 hours per night will make you feel full of energy to enjoy your day. 

Concentrating on your breathing can be a good way to meditate, and breathing exercises can be done anywhere and anytime. Try taking 3-4 deep breaths, hold it, and release slowly, then repeat. This will make you feel more relaxed and reduce stress and anxiety. Other ways to meditate are by hearing to gentle music or downloading meditation apps; this will give your brain a rest so you feeling calm and more centered throughout your journey.

Meditating waiting on the train in Milan, Italy

Your Discovery. Our People… The World Awaits. 

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