Being Present While Traveling

I love piecing together a great vacation—finding the ideal time to go, scouting out the best hotel deals and of course, excitedly counting down the days.

Then the day to leave on vacation arrives—bags are packed, the car is running and I’m ready to go. All of a sudden {Poof!} a thought pops in my head and says…”Only five days until you have to be home.” What!? That is not the type of thought I want consuming my vacation—it’s about being present!

Here’s a big secret—I get almost as equal enjoyment as planning my travels as I do going on them. But, I really want to have the most fun while I’m traveling. Don’t you?

Both the journey and the destination are equally important in travel, so I’ve put together a few tips on how to stay present and in the  moment while on vacation.

1. Breathe deep

Chances are, you’re in a beautiful setting with fresh air. If thoughts of panic about when you’re going home or all the stuff you didn’t finish come up—stop. Take a some deep breaths through your nose. Fill your lungs all the way down to your belly with happy, present thoughts. Do this a few times until you’re “back.” Remember that you will only be experiencing exactly this just once.

2. Plan something sparkly & new

It’s easy to get into a vacation rut…going to the same places, eating at the same restaurants, etc. Even if you are going back to your favorite spot, each vacation can be something different. Plan at least one thing that’s new. Maybe it’s yoga on the beach, white water rafting, sipping the afternoon away at a vineyard or inviting others to experience your bliss. This will focus your thoughts on something extra sparkly!

3. Put down your phone

I have a major love/ARG! relationship with my smart phone. I love social media and documenting my life on Facebook and Twitter, but I have to realize I cannot constantly be attached to technology. We need to feel—hear, smell, touch, see, do (and not just on our phones!). When you decide to be present, amazing things happen, like—holding hands with your loved one, feeling the sun on your face, the sound of birds singing and deeper conversations with your family and friends. It’s a great thing!

4. Pop the pressure balloon

Pressure to have that amazing, over-the-top, once-in-a-lifetime vacation can get you in trouble. I’m not saying you shouldn’t expect the very best, but to dwell on making it happen can backfire. Why not expect the world and leave the rest up to living in the moment. I am pretty sure that you’re going to have an awesome time, and you’re most likely going to experience something you’ve never experienced before. Stick with those thoughts and you’re already ahead of the “this trip is so amazing” game.

5. Say “YES!” more than “No”

Simply, be a “yes” person. Travel is an opportunity to be adventurous and try new things. This will certainly keep you on your toes and living in the present!