the travel edit: intuitive movement

The Travel Edit #3.

The last time I travelled overseas was four years ago. I’m proud to say I’ve come a long way from doing Steph Claire Smiths ‘hotel’ and ‘equipment free’ workouts. SMH.

This unfortunate flashback reinforces the expectations and normalisation that society, the media and diet culture have of us to exercise while traveling.

Here, we can use intuitive movement to guide us on how or if we want to move our bodies when we travel.

Notice your ‘Rigid Rules’ that may show up around exercise and movement.

Typically when you travel you are doing a lot accidental movement. Think of you lugging your 20kg suitcase several kms over cobble stones, while basically running so you don’t miss the train… This is NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis). Walking is just so great, as is swimming and cycling. Activities we often do in a gentle and enjoyable way when travelling. Embrace NEAT.

Connect with your why. If you are exercising because you feel like you have to, this may be a harmful action. Again, think about whether your actions are helpful or harmful? What is driving this action? If this is coming from a harmful place or ‘mean girl’ thoughts, you don’t have to act on your thoughts. Show up for yourself in a kind way in these moments.

Don’t allow guilt and shame to be your reason to continue movement while traveling. What is the cost of this? What does this take away from you?

If you do want to keep moving, then yes, do it! Check in that this is coming from a balanced, healthy and helpful place. Do what makes YOU feel good!

Missing your typical movement routines over a certain period while traveling won’t significantly impact your performance, fitness or appearance.

Rest is important, embrace it!

Try something fun and/or new. Embrace the flexibility of travel, and allow yourself to ebb and flow with this period. If you can move with a friend, family member or partner this social connection adds to the experience.

Make movement an adventure. Go on a hike or do a walking sightseeing tour. Think about how movement can add and open up your rich, full and meaningful life while travelling.

Be kind to yourself. If you have rigid rules and disordered exercise habits, there can be great discomfort in feeling like you’re losing control. I encourage you to sit with this discomfort and treat yourself with kindness and respect.

M x