A Well Balanced....Vacation

Yes, vacation is a great excuse to load up on greasy foods, fatty snacks, and booze, booze, booze; however, you might find that you enjoy yourself even more if you establish a little balance. It might not be the same "healthy" that you are used to at home - but, if you just set up a few boundaries, you can avoid being a waddling whale when you return. The point of a vacation is to come back renewed, revitalized, refreshed. Well, that can't happen if you are 5 cheeseburgers, 14 margaritas, 6 soft-serve ice creams, and 3 loaded nachos heavier. Yes, of course you are going to enjoy yourself and that includes eating wonderful meals and indulging in a few cocktails; however, there has to be a balance. Whether your vacation is one day or 10 days - the same rules apply. Try these tips to help yourself stay balanced and in control while on your much deserved days off.

- Pre-Vacay Workout: I like to workout either the night before or the morning of a vacation. This starts things off on the right foot, and you will feel more energized for travel.
- The Flight: It's important to always be prepared. Bring a few healthy snacks and make sure to buy a water bottle for the flight. You don't want to start your vacay out dehydrated.
- The Car: If you are driving, same rules apply. Pack a cooler with sandwiches, a few healthy snacks (fruit, granola bars, nuts, string cheese, etc.) This way you can avoid at least one fast-food stop and convenience store snacks. If you have to go through a drive through, avoid fried items. Choose a hamburger over fries and mozzarella sticks. This will save you calories and increase your protein intake!
- The Hotel: Once you arrive at your destination, hit the super market. Load up on lunch meat, PB&J, whole wheat breads, fruit, cheese, cereal, low-fat milk, and other healthy items for breakfast and lunch. You are most likely going to eat breakfast and lunch in and dinner out. So, choose to eat healthier meals to start your day out on the right foot. Then, you can enjoy your nightly meals out. Start your day off with a protein packed breakfast (ex. Instant oatmeal made with milk and an additional glass of milk to drink). Avoid continental breakfast. If you eat too many high calorie foods in the am, this can make you lethargic for the rest of they day. Starting out the right way will help you (subconsciously) eat healthier for the rest of day!
- Eating Out: Avoid appetizers (stick with your entree - that will be plenty of food), avoid fried foods - choose baked or broiled fish or poultry, baked potatoes (instead of fries), ect.
- Don't Skip Meals: Its easy to skip meals when you are having a good time, but this will leave you ravenous and less likely to control yourself later in the day.
- Alcohol: You know what to do in this area - moderation and avoid sugary mixes.
- Be Active: Being active is fun, not punishment. No, you don't need to do a beach-front boot camp every morning, but still go on walks, walk to near by restaurants, take the stairs to your room, play sports, anything!!! You will have more energy if you try to be active than if you lay around like a lazy walrus all day!

It's all about balance. You have to be able to enjoy yourself, but still be in control. Trust me, you will end up feeling better throughout the day, enjoying your time more, and feeling rejuvenated when you return!!

Happy Traveling!!