Tips For Unwinding While On The Move

Go somewhere off the beaten, like this small, peaceful beach outside Athens.

You know the drill: travelling is an absolute blast but sometimes, just sometimes, it can be a bit much. Crowded tourist spots, tight schedules—it can really make you wish for a little nook of your own to relax and recharge, right? Well, guess what? It’s totally doable, and I am here to tell you how to make any travel spot feel a bit more like a spot to relax.

Photo via Pexels

Embrace Portable Relaxation Tools
So, first things first—let’s talk about packing. Not just clothes, but the good stuff: relaxation tools.
Ever thought of bringing a mini aromatherapy diffuser or a scented candle along? A few drops of lavender or
chamomile and you’re in a chill zone, no matter where you are. And don’t forget the
noise-cancelling earphones. They’ll be your best friend when you need to switch off the world and get into your favourite soothing music. Oh, and a foldable yoga mat? Perfect for a quick stretch at the airport lounge or a full session in your hotel room.

I have this friend of mine who’ve influenced me to bring a scented candle or a diffuser when we go on long weekend staycation, and I absolutely love it!

Pack Your Skincare Essentials
Traveling is an exciting experience. However, it can take a toll (not only on your mental fortitude but aso) on our skin. Of course, there are travel-related stress that may come our way, like exposure to pollutants, weather changes and the like, can affect our skin. Of course, we want to maintain a radiant and healthy complexion on the go, hence it is vital to bring with us our skincare travel essentials.

As a backpacker, I usually bring with me the most basic ones like a good cleansing soap, a toner, and a sunscreen. And I am happy that I can get all these things from one brand recommended by my sister, the All United Skin line of products.

Sand, sea, sunscreen (from All United Skin) and coconut juice for an awesome beach getaway.

Curate Your Digital Environment
Navigating online content from a new place can be a hassle, right? A solid VPN should be your go-to on trips abroad, keeping your browsing safe and letting you access your favourite shows from anywhere. So, if you’re itching to know where to watch Dune 2, using a VPN can help you set up movie night, no matter where your travels have taken you. Pure gold!


Seek Out Hidden Spots
There’s always a quiet corner away from the hustle and bustle— if you know where to look. Before you jet off, a little digging can help you uncover local hideaways like quaint cafés or tranquil parks. And once you land, why not get chatting to the locals? More often than not, they’re happy to share some insider info on spots that aren’t crawling with tourists.

My local couchsurfing host in Berlin took me to a naturist lake one afternoon, and it was an amazing and liberating experience.

Establish A Morning Routine
Morning rituals are everything! They set the tone for your day. Why not find a cosy little café
each morning? Imagine this: you, a creamy latte, and some serious people-watching. Or maybe a serene breakfast with a view at your hotel, watching the city wake up. Even a brisk walk through unknown streets can do absolute wonders for your mood. I make sure to do this as a way of familiarizing myself with the neighborhood of the place I stay at.

A cafe I discovered while walking around Istanbul after an early morning walk.

Create A Mobile Meditation Space
Who says you can’t meditate on the go? With apps like Headspace, or Calm, a quick meditation session is just a few taps away. Find yourself a little spot, anywhere really—a shady park bench, your hotel balcony, even a quiet airport corner. Pop on your headphones, maybe an eye mask, and zone out for a bit. It’s like a recharge button for your soul!

I’ve been using the Headspace app since 2017. I particularly use it during times I have difficulty sleeping because of excitement brought about by travel. Such a handy way to help me sleep and clear my headspace.

Book Accommodations With Wellness in Mind
Picking the right place to stay can make all the difference. Many spots now come with perks like spas, gyms, or even yoga classes. Imagine unwinding with a spa session after a day of exploring, or stretching out with a sunrise yoga class. Some places even offer creative workshops—painting, cooking—you name it!

During one of my local travels, the hotel we were staying at has a nearby pottery that allows tourists to try pottery making.

There you have it! Creating your own space to unwind isn’t just about finding a spot; it’s about making wherever you are feel a little more like your space. With a bit of planning and some creativity, you can make any travel experience a lot more relaxing. So, next time you’re packing, remember it’s not just about what you’ll wear, but also about how you’ll relax.

Take it easy.

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