Are you among the many who will be making a journey this holiday season? If so, just to be on the safe side, here are three tips that are essential to reduce the chance of a frazzled nervous system.

First and foremost, drink plenty of water the day before and the day of travel. You want to prepare your body for the dehydrating travails of travel. Our bodies are made up of mostly water, so not hydrating properly before travel is to add insult to injury. Make sure the water is of high quality. Without going into it too much here, you must have an excellent water filtration system (note: you won’t find the best water filter in any store) so that your end product is structured, “living” water. Another hint: water that is packaged in a plastic bottle is NOT healthy. No self-respecting water company would package water in a plastic bottle. Drink your own filtered water and find a filter that you can travel with.

The second tip is BREATHE! Whenever you think about it, take slow, deep breaths. Breathing, as well as being a necessity of life, is also an art form and a very powerful healing tool. There are many methods of breathing to lower the blood pressure and slow the heart rate, thereby reducing or even eliminating stress levels. When you are in the act of breathing properly, you automatically sit or stand taller with your shoulders back, so that your lungs can fill more fully. This is also a quick way to get grounded and centered. The great thing about breathing is that you can do it anywhere and at any time! One great technique is to inhale for seven seconds and immediately exhale for seven seconds, without holding your breath inbetween. This is called “circular” breathing.

The third and final tip for reducing travel stress is to bring something that you love with you. It could be a great book, or fantastic music, or a person! Keep reminding yourself of the good in your life, and how much the good things help to calm and comfort you. Unless you love your work and it’s relaxing for you, let it go and feel free to focus on something you love and appreciate. There are going to be great opportunities for exploring these cherished things (if you’re flying, for example, you may encounter lines at the ticket counter, waiting in the lounge area before boarding, sitting on the runway, and of course, in flight, among other times).

The key to stress-reduction or elimination is your attitude. If you view your travel time as an opportunity, you are on your way to a great experience. And if you bring your smile and sense of humor with you, you’ll be traveling in excellent company. May your journey be safe, healthy, and joyous!

Kim Markison
http://www.hypno-freedom.com