Navigating Summer Vacations

Do You Have to Choose Between Relaxing or Being Healthy?

‘Tis the season! Not for wintery holidays though—for summer vacations! As we inch closer and closer to Memorial Day weekend, just about everyone has taking a break on the brain. Whether you’re planning a weekend of picnicking and playing with your kids at home or you’ve got your heart set on a luxury cruise, I hope an opportunity to unwind is coming your way soon.

As for me and my family, we’re gearing up for our annual trip to Smuggler’s Notch in Vermont. The town is full of opportunities to be active, which I absolutely love. We go hiking, play beach volleyball, take walks around the resort, play tennis and frisbee golf . . . It’s a great way to get my workout in when we’re on the road!

I don’t want to make you think vacation has to be one big, long workout though. It’s totally okay to just take some time to relax while you’re traveling as well! Self-care means taking care of yourself physically AND mentally.

If you’re planning your summer vacation, I’d encourage you to try to find balance between relaxation and physical activity. Balance doesn’t necessarily mean splitting your time perfectly evenly; it just means being conscious of your needs and trying to address as many as you can.

Maybe that means getting up at sunrise for a long walk on the beach that doubles as your recharge time and a little workout. Maybe it means you spend a full day lounging by the pool, followed by a hike the next afternoon. Maybe you could plan to eat a great dinner and then go out for an evening hike with your family. There are tons of great ways you can enjoy a relaxing vacation without being too sedentary during your trip.

What I’d love to hear from you is, what’s your favorite type of vacation? Are you interested in learning more ways to stay active while you’re on holiday, or do you prefer to just take a couple weeks off and get back to business when you get home? There’s no wrong answer!

Whatever you end up doing, wherever you go, I hope you have a wonderful vacation season. As always, what I hope for you is that you live a life you love without being hungry, feeling deprived, or giving up your glass of wine with dinner.

Looking for more advice on having fun AND staying healthy? Grab a free download of my Eat, Drink, & Be Healthy Guide here!