Travel Self Care - 6 Tips That Will Make Your Trip

Having just returned from an overseas trip, I was reflecting on what made the trip enjoyable and not overwhelming. Prior to the trip, I was extremely busy with coaching clients and tele-classes in addition to planning the itinerary for my husband, who was working overseas. Consequently I was becoming a little stressed. In my coaching sessions with my coach, I was able to remember to be in the NOW even though I was planning an itinerary for the future and to remember the purpose of the trip- to celebrate our 34th wedding anniversary- and not to get caught up in the details of must sees and how-tos. How do I want to be when making travel arrangements? was the questions posed to me. My answer, I want to have fun! Armed with that knowledge and attitude, the travel arrangements fell into place given the 9 hour time difference.

Travel Self Care

# 1 Whats the focus of the trip?
This can be your guide to planned and spontaneous activities.

#2 Have fun with the planning with an added dash of flexibility and simplicity.

Select activities that will support your vision of the trip and highlight whats important for you to do and see while showcasing your and your familys definition of rest and relaxation.

#3 Filter your trip through the heart level.This adds compassion, fun, and adventure for your trip.

Handling overseas travel can be challenging or an adventure. Viewing the trip from the heart level and the stand of innocence can make the trip an adventure instead of focusing on jet lag, too little leg room, babies crying, delays and irritable passengers. I witnessed very different coping strategies on the flights over and back. The more control the person wanted to exert over the situation the less happy they were with their journey; then there was the family of 5 which included a small baby, who were flying stand by on an international flight. They exuded and portrayed happiness, serenity, flexibility and fun. They focused on enjoying the trip while still being aware of the comfort of the other passengers. They exhibited such honor and respect for each other and their children it was sheer pleasure to see. Whenever I caught myself getting irritated or impatient, I brought my focus to heart level then the situation just flowed. (It also saves a lot of energy.)

#4 Adopt a stand of innocence and non-judgement.

Travel opens the door to new vistas, thoughts and cultures. To really appreciate and enjoy the experience, I invite you to leave any judgement or pre-conceived ideas at home. Accepting other cultures or traditions gives freedom to see the novel and unlimited possibilities and ways of carrying out daily activities and routines. Children see the world all new and from an open perspective. The filter of awe and wonderment connects us to our global community.

#5 Hold the big picture/Detach from the outcome.

Plans go awry. The members of your family or group may not like seeing or doing certain activities. Holding the big picture of enjoyment for all eases a tense atmosphere. Honoring specific requests and then agreeing to accommodate them within time boundaries adds adaptability to the trip. On the flip side, detaching yourself from seeing all that you want to see can make the trip more relaxed for all.

#6 What are the gifts that this trip has given me? (Aside from purchased souvenirs)

I decided that I was extremely grateful to be able to make this trip. Even during the bumps of the trip, there was beauty, gratitude and love in being together and sharing an incredible experience. I learned to be flexible with schedules and in sharing my personal space. I met some amazing people and had deep insightful conversations with them. I learned to communicate creatively. I have a tremendous appreciation for people in the travel industry who demonstrate patience, service and concern.

These are self care tips that you may or may not find in Frommers, Fodors, or Rick Steves books. The above perspectives helped me to return mentally, emotionally and spiritually refreshed from my trip. I do offer them to you for consideration as you pack your suitcases for your next trip.

Bon Voyage!

Colleen Crook is a Certified Life and Leadership Coach and a Certified Passion Test(TM) Facilitator. She is known as The Passions to Action Coach. She has over 30 years experience in the field of Occupational Therapy as a manager,supervisor,mentor, facilitator and therapist both in the national and international arenas. She is passionate about sparking the best in individuals and assisting in making the impossible possible while leading with spirit. You can visit her at http://www.consciouslivingconnection.com

Kiss My Face Toothpaste
Buy Aveda Hair Spray
Buy SkinCeuticals Retinol