Daily routines are an essential part of our lives. Our routines help jump start and keep our day going. In a time of hyper productivity, our routines help keep us grounded and sane. Stress levels are at an all time high. We turn to our routines to help manage stress levels. Routines help keep us accountable. There are all types of routines. Such as meditation, fitness training, supplementation, meal plans, etc.
I personally have found benefits with having a daily routine. It has helped in all aspects of my work and personal life. For instance, I start my day with drinking my greens and then water. I won’t have coffee and breakfast until about 45 minutes to an hour later. I workout 5-6 times a week, no set time of day but it’s important I get a workout in. For fuel, I snack often and eat 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). I also take supplements with breakfast and dinner.
So what happens to our routines when we travel?
You simply can’t take everything with you (or you can haha). Meals are not the same. Gyms or fitness facilities are not readily accessible. Different time zones throws off our sleep. The list goes on. It can be challenge. Early on in my career when I was traveling more frequently meals and snacking was my biggest challenge. I would go hours without snacking. By the time I was done with work it was dinner time. I’d order a big meal with appetizers. I never really felt good afterwards. I found it challenging to workout consistently too. When I come from my trips, I would feel lethargic and sluggish.
Over the years I’ve learned that proper planning is important to keep your routine going. If you can keep the exact routine great but I found that keeping it as close as possible makes such a difference. I’d like to share a few things I do when I travel:
- Supplements: Mine come individually packed so it’s very convenient. But other vitamins I take such as omega, C, D etc don’t so I will pack those in a ziplock. I take AG1 as well, if I can, I’ll order the travel packs. But if I can’t I’m usually out of luck since it has to be refrigerated. TSA doesn’t have restrictions on supplements so it’s okay to pack any loose ones in a ziplock. Powders are okay too. But don’t be surprised if they inspect them. There has been occasions I found protein or pre-workout residue on my clothes haha. Which is why I don’t bring them anymore. Unless they are individually packed.
- Meals and Snacks: I like to plan ahead what I’m going to eat for dinner. Breakfast and lunch is pretty much on the fly. What’s most important for me is the snacks. Ahead of my trip I will buy protein bars and packs of mixed nuts. By snacking it helps from binging at the end of my work day.
- Working out: I pack a few workout clothes and bring my running shoes. If your hotel has a decent gym with weights and treadmill you should be all set. If not, I will go out on runs. The time of day I workout depends on my schedule. I will do either an early morning or a late afternoon session before dinner. I don’t bring pre-workout so I use coffee for an energy boost. I’m not a fan of pre made protein shakes. I’ll try to get my protein intake from breakfast or dinner.
- Sleep: Good sleep can be a challenge while on the road. Different time zone, environment, uncomfortable beds you know name, it can affect your sleep. I do like to pack teas. After dinner I’ll drink chamomile tea to help me wine down. I use to be sleep with the TV on. I found that turning everything off helps me relax too.
- Hydration: Most important thing is to stay hydrated. Drink lots of water. Early on I would drink energy drinks and it was the only time I would drink them. I stay clear of them when I’m at home. But drinking lots of water is very important. Depending on how long my trip is, I will buy a pack of water.
Comment and share how you prepare!
Safe travels ✈️
