The Grounded Traveler
Posted on 26. Dec, 2009 by Margaret in Yoga
If you’re planning to travel this holiday season… here are some tips to prevent anxiety and restlessness, and make any trip more relaxing.
Establishing a rhythm is easy at home, where you control your schedule and can settle into a comfortable routine. But when you’re traveling (for business or for pleasure), that rhythm is disrupted, which can throw you off-kilter. To set yourself at ease on any journey, learn how to ground yourself. Staying grounded away from home really comes down to being mindful and centered regardless of changing environments, time zones, and meal plans.
Here are some tips to help you stay grounded during your travels
Create a harmonious space
Cluttered surroundings can make you feel unbalanced and anxious. Unpack your belongings as soon as you arrive and take the time to arrange your room so it feels comfortable. Buy flowers or set up personal photos to make you feel more at home.
Invigorate with oil
Like candles, essential oils stimulate the sense of smell, which can influence how you feel. Ayurveda prescribes lavender oil for vata imbalance, jasmine or sandalwood for pitta, and eucalyptus for kapha. Add two drops to a bath or mix a few drops with almond, olive, or sunflower oil and massage into your skin.
Light a candle
To refresh your senses and calm your nerves, try one scented with lavender, lemongrass, or musk.
Detach from results
It’s natural to harbor dreams of perfection when you travel, because you’ve invested time, money, and effort. But when the inevitable mishap does occur—like missing a connecting flight, getting sick, or being stranded without a hotel reservation—yoga philosophy can help.
So what would Patanjali do? He’d probably remember the second of the eight limbs of classical yoga, the niyamas (observances). Cultivating two of the niyamas in particular, Ishvara pranidhana (the practice of surrender) and samtosha (contentment), can help remind you that oftentimes, the joy is in the journey, whatever unexpected form it may take.
Modify your usual yoga routine
You may not have the time, space, or energy for your full yoga practice, but sticking to some form of it will make you feel better. Try to meditate for a few minutes, and practice mostly standing yoga poses. By grounding your feet, you’ll automatically feel stable.
Source: Yoga Journal Article By Karen Asp
