Sometimes we can have all the tools, tips and tricks in the world but we just end up feeling blah, or anxious on a trip. Instead of judging ourselves or beating ourselves up for those feelings when we let go of the need for things to be perfect we grant ourselves grace. While travel is an immense privilege and an incredible way to get to know ourselves and the world around us, things might not go your way. Releasing the need to judge ourselves or have the perfect Instagram Story every day is freeing!
It is totally normal to feel anxious before and during a trip. After all, there are so many things that could go wrong when you are travelling. For some people, the idea of travel can be extremely stressful. There are several things I ensure I bring with me on trips to help reduce anxiety by stimulating or relaxing one or all of my five senses:
- The Saje pocket pharmacy. Creating an environment filled with relaxing smells before I go to bed is part of my routine and this is a compact way to use aromatherapy while on the go.
- A black out eye mask to ensure that on a flight with bright lights or in a hotel without black out curtains I can always get to sleep.
- A pair of ear plugs. If I am travelling on a noisy overnight train or I’m stuck on a long layover and need a nap, these always come in handy. I recently got the lifetime subscription to the “Calm” app. It’s great because I can download guided meditations to do while offline and on a flight or I can do my daily emotional check ins to look back and see how I’m really feeling.
- This might seem really random, but I always bring warm fuzzy socks to help with anxiety on trips. If my feet are cold I’ll never get to sleep and if I can’t sleep I’ll feel anxious.
The most important thing is to remember that you can deal with any issues by using relaxation techniques, planning ahead, working with a healthcare professional and letting go of the need for your trip to be perfect!