World Heart Day is observed annually on September 29
It’s difficult to stay on track with a healthy lifestyle when you’re travelling, but there are numerous ways to keep heart health at the top of your priority list.
World Heart Day is observed annually on September 29 to promote awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Initiated in 1999 by the World Heart Federation (WHF) with the backing of the World Health Organisation (WHO), the first celebration took place on September 24, 2000. Originally held on the last Sunday of September, the observance was moved to September 29 in 2012.
It’s difficult to stay on track with a healthy lifestyle when you’re travelling, but there are numerous ways to keep heart health at the top of your priority list. Here are some tips to stay healthy while travelling:
Eat Smart
- Eat carefully and avoid overeating. Do not rely only on fast-food products or any other products that are new to you.
- It is important to carry with you healthy snacks such as nuts, fruits or vegetables.
- Search for adequate eateries that can provide comparatively healthier meals and attempt to consume large quantities of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, lean proteins and low-fat dairy daily.
- Reduce intake of salt, sugar and saturated fats.
Move More
- Spend more time on your feet by walking about the airport rather than using the moving sidewalks.
- Whenever you feel confined for long hours in a car or seated during a flight or in a meeting, try walking around a little or at least stretching.
- Choose accommodation with a fitness centre or a swimming pool and make time for exercise.
- Walking around a new place can have double benefits. One, you get to explore the place and second, it can aid with physical activity.
- Achieve at least 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise weekly.
Manage Stress
- Use airport yoga rooms or look for a corner to twist and crack just before the flight.
- Relax your mind and body by having a massage or other spa service.
- Take time to meditate or do deep breathing exercises especially when you are alone in your hotel room.
- Remain positive and thankful to have the chance to visit some new places.
Other Tips
- Maximise the amount of water you drink and refrain from taking alcoholic substances and caffeinated drinks.
- Ensure you get enough sleep. An adult should sleep for about 7-9 hours per night.
- Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Quit smoking if you’re a smoker.
- Eat healthy and exercise in order to avoid obesity.
- With the integration of these heart-friendly activities into your travelling practices, one can have a nice tour as cardiovascular health is maintained well.
