RISMEDIA, July 27, 2007—Whether on the road for business or pleasure, today’s travelers face obstacles at every turn from traffic snarls to delayed flights and long airport lines. When the hassle of travel leaves you stressed, try these simple tips from Historic Hotels of America to keep you energized, rejuvenated and relaxed while on the
road.
— To rejuvenate aching feet, Leah Wagner, lead fitness instructor at the
Spa at Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, N.Y., offers a simple
suggestion. Place a tennis ball under the ball of your foot. While
seated, roll the ball back and forth under the arch of your foot. This
can be done in your hotel room, at your desk or even on an airplane.
— A sure-fire way to feel tired and irritable after traveling is to
indulge in junk food. Instead, Sheryl O’Brien, spa director at the Old
Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands, N.C., recommends reaching for fresh
fruit. A quick candy bar or bag of chips at the airport or gas station
might offer a quick fix, but will only bring you down later. A more
nutritious snack will fill you up and provide a good source of energy.
— Daniel Chong-Jimenez, executive chef of the Spa at Norwich Inn in
Norwich, Conn., suggests eating light meals comprised of lean protein
such as chicken breast, tuna and light ham, along with greens and
vegetables. He says eating carbohydrates such as pasta, bread and
sweets will result in drowsiness and diminished energy.
— The Hotel El Convento in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, reminds guests of
the importance of staying hydrated. This is especially true when
traveling to warmer climates and higher altitudes.
— Kate Means, director of the Spa at Colonial Williamsburg in
Williamsburg, Va., which includes the Williamsburg Inn and Colonial
Houses, advises getting adjusted to the new time zone quickly. Set
your watch on the airplane, then focus on diet, exercise and relaxation
and enjoy your surroundings.
— Once you reach your destination, don’t just sit on the couch. Sue
Andersson of the Jekyll Island Club Hotel in Jekyll Island, Ga., says
getting up and out will start you off on the right foot. Take a 20-30
minute stroll early in the morning to clear your mind for the day
ahead, to get your circulation flowing and to explore the sites.
— Maintaining proper sitting posture while traveling helps prevent neck
and back soreness according to Rob Vorhees, head personal trainer, and
Phyllis Ellerman, fitness director at the Sports Club at Boar’s Head
Inn in Charlottesville, Va. They suggest keeping your seat and head in
an upright position; support your lower back by placing a small rolled-
up towel between your lower lumbar back and the seat back; and keep
your shoulders in proper alignment.
For more information, visit http://www.historichotels.org.