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Move: Start your day with movement. Whether you walk, practice yoga, or exercise at the gym, you will gain peace of mind indulging throughout the day, knowing that you worked out. Working out also boosts our endorphins, giving us more energy, helping ease our minds, and rejuvenating our bodies. Through a bit of movement, we can access more confidence and calmness to take with us throughout the day.
Meditate: Download a free meditation app like Insight Timer and search whatever type of meditation you seek, whether 5 minutes of guided imagery or 45 minutes of breathwork. If you want to go tech-free, you do not need an app to meditate. Find a comfortable spot for stillness and focus your mind on one object or thought. Through this practice, you train your mind to be more present and aware, leading to a more stable and emotionally calm mindset.
Gratitude Journaling: Bring a journal with you on your trip and designate a time (ideally at night) to write three things you are grateful for that day. Inviting attention to what we are thankful for generates more positive things to happen to us and for us. In addition, studies have shown that people who practice gratitude are overall happier, healthier, and less stressed.
High-Low: This is a fun one! Each night at dinner, invite those you are with, or if alone, reflect inwardly about the good (highs) and the bad (lows) that happened that day. The significant rule with high-low is that while everyone must have at least one "high," they do not need any "lows". Through this activity, we are making space to appreciate the positive things that we are experiencing on our vacation.
Tech-Free Time: Designate a certain amount of time each day to go tech-free. Vacation presents a unique opportunity to disconnect from our cellphones and laptops, and we should take advantage of this time. By getting a break from our devices, we can reconnect with our surroundings, loved ones, and ourselves.