Whilst a holiday is often a much-needed routine buster it can also lead to a world of temptation. Hours spent lounging by the pool (not actually swimming) and all-inclusive food and drink packages can go a long way to undoing all the hard work and conscious eating you’ve done in the months leading up to your getaway. That said, spending your break in the gym and eating celery sticks is nobody’s idea of a relaxing vacation. So here at Simply Beach we have put together a few simple steps you can deploy on your next escape which will help keep the ill-effects of gluttonous habits at bay without sacrificing any holiday enjoyment and relaxation.
Stay Active
Whilst city breaks lend themselves well to keeping fit it can be slightly trickier to keep up your step count when you are by the pool or beach day after day. Even in an all-inclusive environment it can be simple to incorporate a bit more physical exertion into your holiday routine. Instead of splashing around for two minutes to cool off between sun lounging sessions make a conscious effort to swim a few lengths. Also, if you have booked day trips out try to make sure there is walking involved. We would recommend the early morning as the prime time for anything more strenuous, like a jog or cycle, before you get distracted and before it gets too hot.
Eat Mindfully
The diet can often be the first thing to slip when you go away. Whether this is overeating or undereating the change of intake can have a negative effect on your health. Either way make sure you eat on a regular basis; this will help to stop you from over-indulging or skipping on your next meal and will also help keep your metabolism firing on all cylinders. All-inclusive buffets can lead to bad decisions, but it is also a great opportunity to load up on healthy nutrients and eat more of the fruit and veg you enjoy. Some treats are inevitable, but we would recommend the 80:20 rule where you eat healthily 80 percent of the time.
Stay Hydrated
We all know the dangers of not drinking enough water. In addition to headaches, dizziness and fainting, it can be easy to mistake thirst for hunger, so you can end up eating more if you are dehydrated. All of this can be avoided if you stay on top of your water levels, especially if you are travelling somewhere hot. Make sure you drink regularly, always have a water bottle on you and hydrate before you get thirsty. Eating certain foods can also help; watermelon, cucumbers, strawberries and lettuce are all over 92 percent water. Alcohol can also lead to dehydration, so a spritzer instead of wine or a shandy instead of beer can help minimise these effects and reduce your calorie intake.
Sleep & Relax
Nobody wants to come home from their holidays feeling more exhausted than when they left. Staying out late, discovering the nightlife and rushing around exploring a new city is appealing but make sure you fit in enough sleep. Sleep-deprivation has been linked to lower metabolism and weight gain because you tend to be hungrier, consume more food and get less physical activity. Relaxing on your sun loungers I also important. Reducing stress levels is key to losing stubborn weight and nothing reduces stress like sitting back with the sun on your face listening to music or reading a great book.
Also consider checking out How to Avoid Beach Holiday Stress!
Enjoy Yourself
As mentioned, the best thing you can do for your general health is to relax and unwind. Finding time to take care of yourself is crucial for your health, whether that’s having a lie-in, playing by the beach, reading a book or getting a manicure and a massage. If you take time to do the things that make you happy your body and mind will love you for it.
Do you have any top tips for staying healthy when you are on holiday? See also our guide on holiday inspired home here!