I am an eternal rolling stone. I move wherever, whenever the impulse strikes, and at whatever cost.
I love to move, and travel and change my vantage point. But while a lack of structure and routine is amazing for your soul and your worldview, it can, at times, take a toll on your mental health.
I used to sacrifice everything for the adventure. No amount of peace and comfortability could compare to what I learned from the struggle of constant motion and always being a little out of my comfort zone. But as I get older, I have come to realize that I can still be out of my comfort zone while I keep my mind healthy, organized and balanced. I didn’t have to give up one life for the other. I could take my mental health journey on the road! All I needed to do was adjust my packing list a little.
Here are a few things you can toss in your bag to keep you well rested, balanced and happy, no matter where you are.
Eye Mask
They’re not just for 1950’s movie starlets! Having some solid darkness, no matter what plane, train or hostel you’re in will make all the difference to your sleep quality… and your sleep quality has a lot to do with your mental health and mood. So pop one in your carry on and conk out.
CBD, Melatonin or HTP5
Travel can really screw with your sleep schedule. So much so, that there will be times when you need a bit more than darkness to catch some z’s. Make sure you bring your favorite CBD tincture, melatonin or HTP5 tablets. They will balance your mood, slow your running mind and get you nice and chill when the time comes to wind down.
Travel Toiletry Bag
It’s hard to focus on seeing the sights when you feel icky and unclean. Keep a little bag on you with travel sized toothpaste, toothbrush, cleansing wipes, dry shampoo and a comb. Toss in some compression socks if your feet tend to swell in the air too. No matter how many hours of travel you have ahead of you, you’ll feel fresh.
Oils
I always make sure to pack a couple oils in my suitcase. A facial oil will restore your skin from any moisture loss after air travel, some lavender oil behind your ears will keep you zen in busy airports and a little eucalyptus oil will wake you up after a long night out on the town.
A good book
Depending on how you travel, there might be a lot of running around involved. Take a minute to slow down and relax with a good book. Maybe it’s pertinent to your travel plans, self-help, historical or romantic. It doesn’t matter what you read, as long as it brings you a moment of peace and quiet.
Yoga mat
Keep a travel sized yoga mat in your suitcase or on top of your trekking backpack. It’ll act as a reminder to not let your health fall by the wayside. Whether you use it for HIIT, light stretching, or to sit on and meditate, it offers you a little space just for you, no matter where you are.