Between navigating through airport security and enduring hours on the road, traveling for leisure is rarely ever leisurely. Road trips and plane trips alike can take a toll on both your physical and mental health, which is why it’s important to take a day to recover from traveling. However, the stress of travel combined with unfamiliar surroundings can make proper rest hard to achieve. If you’re a frequent traveler, here are four tried-and-true ways to unwind and recharge after a demanding journey.
1. Take a Shower
The act of showering after a long day of travel has both a utilitarian and spiritual purpose. At a minimum, it rinses off dirt, grime, and dust picked up at the airport, in the plane, or at gas stations along the way. It can also reset your body and prepare your mind for taking the next step in your journey. A hot shower will dilate blood vessels, which provides instant relief from muscle tension and knots. On the other hand, cold showers deliver an invigorating shock to your system, effective for stimulating endorphins and boosting your mood. In addition, aromatic shower products such as lavender or eucalyptus can further enhance the calming effects of your shower and contribute to a full night’s rest.
2. Take a Walk
Exercise is scientifically proven to improve sleep quality, but you don’t need to hit the gym to gain sleep benefits. A short, leisurely stroll and some fresh air are enough to get your body back on track after a grueling day of travel. Whether you’re taking a stroll around your hotel or your own neighborhood after coming home, the physical act of walking shifts your focus away from the stresses of travel. Plus, the gentle exercise promotes the circulation of fresh, oxygenated blood to aching joints and muscles, leaving you relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to unwind.
3. Unplug Yourself From Your Devices
According to scientific research, your digital devices are harmful to your ability to fall asleep, especially after a long day of travel. Blue light emitted from phone and tablet screens suppresses the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleepiness. In addition, the visual and mental stimulation of “doom-scrolling” can prevent your over-active mind from shutting itself off. Considering this, take some time to unplug and disconnect from electronic devices after a long travel day. Turn off your phone, step away from the computer, and resist the urge to check emails or social media.
4. Use CBD Products
If you want to include supplementation to help you relax, consider incorporating CBD into your post-travel routine. Short for “cannabidiol,” CBD is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant. In recent years, it has risen in popularity for its potential therapeutic effects, which include stress relief and relaxation. CBD works by binding to existing receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating mood, appetite, and pain sensation. You can find CBD products in a variety of forms, such as tinctures, capsules, gummies, or drinks.
