Vata-Pacifying Travel Hacks to Make Air Travel Easier
Do you feel completely thrown off after a long-haul flight? The dry air, irregular meals, and disrupted sleep schedule can leave you feeling anxious, fatigued, and out of sorts. This is especially true for those of us with a Vata-dominant constitution, 🙋🏼♀️
As a Vata-dominant individual, I've learned the hard way that air travel can be a real challenge. But with a little preparation and some ayurvedic travel hacks, you can minimise the disruptive effects and arrive feeling in vacation mode!
I have just touched down from a 15hr Canada to Australia flight, & I feel so good! I was able to sleep for 11 hours - I put this down to my preparation! Here are my top ayurvedic tips for making air travel more grounding (get it?)
Pre-Flight Travel Hacks:
Abhyanga: Indulge in a long, slow self-massage using a grounding oil blend like sesame and castor with added neem and rosemary. Focus on your head and feet and be sure the massage, not just apply.
Herbs: Boost your immunity and calm your nerves with a high dose of turmeric and ginger.
In-Flight Hacks:
Stay Hydrated:When the drink cart arrives, request hot water! The hostess may even offer a few lemon slices! This keeps the agni (digestive fire) kindled, soothes anxiety and helps melt away Ama(toxins)
Stay Ahead on Moisturising: Keep your face oils and lip balms easily accessible - be sure to make sure they are within the carry-on limit for liquids.
Opt for natural fabrics like wool to keep you warm and cozy. Layer your clothing so you can adjust to temperature changes.
Watch the Screen Time: While watching movies can be a great way to pass the time, the blue light emitted from screens can add to the already disrupted circadian rhythm. Dim the brightness and when you are ready for shut eye - turn off the screen.
Pre-order the vegetarian meal: Our bodies are already getting confused with meal & sleep times, so make what you are eating easy to digest.
Post-Flight Recovery Hacks:
Rehydrate and Replenish: Continue to hydrate and nourish your body with plenty of warm/hot water, herbal teas, and whole foods. Maybe even stick to vegetarian until the jet lag wears off.
Abhyanga, Again! You can never do this too much! Your body will love you.
Connect with your new environment: Soak up the sunlight in your new location. The wavelengths of the sun will help your body clock adjust to the time change!
The holidays can be energy-sapping enough. A little preparation and these hacks can go a long way in reducing the effects of travel.
Nicki is a Hiking Guide, Ayurvedic Pracitioner and Yoga teacher living in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia.
Her programs prioritise playfulness, community, authenticity of teachings, and a deep curiosity for self-discovery, connection with others, and exploration the awe-inspiring landscapes surrounding Whistler to craft transformative nature-immersed experiences.
