Like a breath of sea air on a warm summer morning, holidays are back!
It’s time to haul those shorts and the swimming gear out of hibernation, dust off the beach towels and get set for some serious R and R.
But wait… after more than a year of being cautious, we can’t afford to ruin all that good work. That’s why the powers that be have advised us which countries are considered safe to visit – and we must continue to abide by the rules. In the UK, too, there’s still a list of sensible dos and don’ts that we must follow.
As a chiropractor and health professional, it’s part of my job to advise people how to look after themselves, particularly when they’re getting ready for that well-earned break away from the daily grind.
So here goes…
ON THE MOVE
Remember that there are pitfalls to avoid before you even reach your holiday destination. You shouldn’t be sitting in a car for hours on end without taking a break. For the benefit of both your body and your powers of concentration, it’s best to drive only for a maximum of two hours in one hit.
If you’re on a long-haul flight, get up and walk around every two hours – or between films!
When it comes to luggage, you should only attempt to lift those heavy bags using your strong legs and clenching your buttocks before you begin. Of course, if you have mobility problems, you can contact the airport or your travel operator in advance to see what help they’re able to offer.
How often have you reached your hotel, settled down for a good night’s sleep and wished you’d brought your favourite pillow along for the ride? This is a great idea, especially if you suffer with neck problems. Pillows are easy to pack and can also be used as a head rest during the flight.
WHEN YOU GET THERE
Don’t even think about walking for miles in flip-flops, when you get off the beach put your trainers on! Don’t walk into and around the town in flip flops. This can cause no end of foot, ankle and back problems. Just pack a pair of your most comfortable shoes that you know you can rely on.
I’m a serious advocate for the many benefits of vitamin D – an even tan being an important one – but there are sensible precautions to take before throwing down that towel and soaking up the rays.
Be careful not to lie on your front with your back arched for too long as this is a common cause of back pain and don’t forget to use natural sun creams from reputable sources – and wear a hat!
Carefully study the recommendations for particular skin types, especially if you’re prone to burning easily or suffering from heat rashes and other conditions.
ENJOY A PROPER BREAK
If you’re a serious exerciser – maybe a three to seven times a week runner or gym nut, all year round – remember that your body will thank you for a week or two away from the serious stuff. Why not have a change of routine and get into some swimming, for example? Even professional athletes need to give their bodies a rest, so you should do the same when you’re on holiday.
If you’re not into regular exercise but find yourself enjoying a lovely swim or long walk on holiday… don’t stop when you get back home! Hopefully you will have discovered a new healthy routine that you can build into your regular daily life.
Extend that holiday feeling by discovering your neighbourhood swimming pool or even braving an open water venue.
You could take to the local streets to clock up those 10,000 steps a day – you can still dream of Malta while you’re walking around Mangotsfield!
(Photo by Natalya Zaritskaya on Unsplash)
