When you go on vacation do you find yourself struggling to stay present? Do you feel anxious or distracted? You are not alone. Many people have to work at staying mindful while travelling. Here are six ideas to help you enjoy your next trip while staying present and grounded.
De-connect from work
Many of us who travel look forward to having a break from our careers and day-to-day tasks. However, sometimes it can be hard to keep ourselves from checking in. To be fully mindful and present during your trip, consider deleting work apps from your phone, and tell coworkers that you will have limited cell service. If you are taking time off, that time is yours, any “emergencies” that may pop up can be resolved without you or upon your return.
Stay off Social Media
Social media can be the perfect place to get inspiration for your trip, but a big distraction when you are actually on it! Seeing pictures of others’ vacations on your feed can be discouraging for some, and can divert your attention from getting the most out of your time away. Limit your screen time and try to soak in what you are experiencing!
Document your Journey
Pick up a small notebook before or even during your trip, and start a travel journal! Each day, jot down your favorite parts of the trip including tasty meals you tried, sights you saw, and even stick little mementos inside like stickers, patches, and maps! Writing down memories and things you experienced can help you to stay grateful and mindful during your vacation, and allows you to relive the trip when you look back at the journal when you get home.
Stay Flexible
I often find myself packing trips to the brim to get the most out of my time. If you are the same way, try to keep in mind that having an overloaded schedule can add to your stress and create anxiety over completing the items on your checklist. Leave yourself wiggle room, linger at activities, and open yourself up to changes of plans.
Take Time For Yourself
If you are travelling with others, be sure to take time for yourself. Whether it be watching the sunset, writing in your travel journal, or even taking a relaxing bath at the end of a long day, pause, and recenter yourself so that you don’t get caught up in the rush of the trip.
On your next trip, consider implementing at least one of these tips. I find that they ease my anxiety while on vacation, and allow me to slow down, enjoy my trip, and soak in the wonderful experiences I am grateful to take part in.
Do you have any additional methods or tools you use to stay grounded and mindful while travelling? Let me know in the comments below!