How to Restore Your Energy While Vacationing in Arizona
From off-roading in an ATV through the Sonoran Desert and boating on Lake Havasu to golfing on the pro-level courses in Scottsdale and enjoying the Phoenix nightlife, the question isn’t what’s there to do in Arizona; it’s how can you fit it all in?
The best way to take advantage of all this state has to offer is by staying healthy. After all, you’ll find it difficult to kayak or mountain bike when your energy level is low due to experiencing jet lag, too much partying, or overdoing it in the hot sun.
However, there are some steps you can take to restore your high energy or even prevent exhaustion before fatigue kicks in. Try these tips to get the most out of your Arizona vacation.
Drink Plenty of Water
Want to stay energized? Then stay hydrated. Dehydration can happen as a result of jet lag, intense physical activity, too much sun exposure, and more. Symptoms include headaches, muscle pain, nausea, thirstiness, confusion, and dizziness.
It’s recommended that men drink 15.5 8-oz. cups of water each day, and women should consume 11.5 cups. But you’ll need more if you’ll be active or outdoors in hot weather. You can also supplement your water intake with sports drinks and hydrating foods like watermelon and cucumbers. But try to avoid coffee or alcohol—they act as diuretics (meaning you’ll have to go to the bathroom more often), which make you lose bodily fluids.
The best thing to do is drink water throughout the day to avoid the risk of dehydration. Keep an ample supply of drinking water on hand if you’re going to be outside for several hours. Dehydration progresses from mild to severe symptoms, so take a break and go indoors or seek shade to rest and get your fluid levels back up at the first sign of a problem.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
It’s tempting to ditch the healthy diet on vacation, and no one says you can’t enjoy a cocktail or decadent dessert in moderation. But loading up on sugary, processed, or greasy foods can bring your energy down and make you feel sick. You need to give your body high-quality fuel to keep it running at its best.
Eating healthy gives you body power and sustenance so you can enjoy your vacation exploring Arizona, not stuck in your hotel room. Stick to lean or plant-based protein, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and lots of fruits and vegetables. Make sure to pack healthy snacks, such as trail mix, bananas, energy bars, or apples if you’ll be out during the day.
Maximize Your Beauty Sleep
A good night’s sleep makes everything better. Your mind and body get the chance to unwind and recharge as you’re powering up for the day ahead. While sleeping, you use fewer calories and have a lower body temperature, which means you use less energy than when you’re awake. That’s why you wake up feeling energized and refreshed.
With that said, we know that a late night out on the town is often a part of your vacation plans. On those nights, drink in moderation and eat healthy foods. Alcohol and heavy meals can keep you awake at night, especially if they trigger a hangover or heartburn. It’s also wise to keep your morning free the following day so you have time to sleep in.
It can also be hard to fall asleep the first night in new surroundings, such as a vacation rental or hotel room. Bring your favorite pillow with you if that helps you fall asleep and create a healthy sleep environment. Keep the room temperature around 60 to 67 degrees F, use blackout shades if your room has them, and stay off electronics like a TV or phone in the hour before you go to sleep—they emit a blue light that can disrupt your sleep/wake cycles.
Create an Exercise Routine
You’ve probably got this one covered if your vacation is geared toward active, outdoor pursuits. But if you plan to lounge at the hotel pool all day, try to get some exercise at some point. A sunrise or sunset walk is an ideal way to appreciate Arizona’s natural beauty. Or you can always stop in your resort’s gym for a jog on the treadmill or to lift a few weights.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity each day. Try a bicycle ride, walk, or swim. You’ll generate endorphins that boost your energy and mood so you can really enjoy your vacation.
Release Stress
That’s the whole point of a vacation, right? This is a valuable opportunity to put deadlines and to-do lists out of mind and focus on having fun. If you need a little help unwinding, try some relaxation techniques.
Meditation is a great stress buster, and you can do it anywhere, anytime, making it perfect for people who are traveling. Meditation involves taking time to be in the present and mindful of your breath and the sensations you experience. Stray thoughts may enter your brain, and that’s normal; just acknowledge them and refocus on the present. Try this centering practice for a few minutes each day when you’re new to meditation, then add more time as you progress. Explore other relaxation exercises, too, like deep breathing, yoga, and tai chi.
Try a Liquid IV
Everyone has those days when they overdo it. They feel fatigued, nauseous, foggy, and just plain run down. Don’t let that ruin your vacation, though. Turn to a drip IV instead. Drip IVs provide rapid, effective relief for dehydration symptoms.
IV infusions are quick, about 30 to 45 minutes, and they work fast as sterile solutions packed with vitamins, minerals, and other supplements enter your bloodstream. This way, you get the most power out of these ingredients because IVs provide maximum absorption, compared to oral meds that must be digested first.
Try an IV provider like Mobile IV Nurses that offers mobile service, coming directly to your hotel room for treatment. These medical pros will have you back out there enjoying your vacation in no time.
When vacationing in Arizona, you will want all the energy you can get so you can experience this destination to the fullest. Experiment with these healthy tips to help you look and feel your best.