
With summer in full-swing, many of us have vacation on the mind. Whether it’s simply taking a day off to relax or traveling with friends and family, August is the definitive “break” season.
Too many of us seem to vacation the way we live: Days are overly organized and frantic, leaving no time for a battery recharge. So when we get back to our regular routines, we’re actually relieved that vacation is over. Or, the entire trip is spent vegetating on the beach or by the pool, and the only muscle that moves is the index finger, motioning for the waiter to bring over another fruity drink. Once we get back to the real world, it takes a week to get the brain jump-started and working again.
There is, however, a third alternative: active vacations.
Active vacations are exactly what the words imply: periods of time devoted to pleasure, rest and relaxation that also involve engaging the body and getting energized. (If you’re looking for some last-minute ideas on active vacations, Gordon’s Guide has a wealth of info on travel all over the world.)
Throughout my career, people have often asked me for advice on maintaining regular exercise while on vacation. If you’re on a complicated fitness program, it can be tricky: What if there’s no hotel gym? What if I can’t pack all my workout gear? What if it doesn’t fit into my schedule?
The good news, of course, is that you can easily go for a walking workout no matter where you go. All you need is yourself and a good pair of shoes; that’s why we call it the “no-excuses workout.” And the best part? Your walks don’t have to “get in the way” of your vacation - in fact, they can enhance it! Even if you’re not traveling this summer, your feet can lead you on some pretty interesting vacations right there in your own neck of the woods.
The most fun I’ve had on vacations isn’t lounging by a pool. My fondest summer memories are of discovering new and interesting things on walks or hikes with friends and family, whether it’s collecting seashells in the sand, discovering a local antique shop, or admiring wildflowers on the hillside. As a resident of Santa Monica, I do love the beach - but when it comes to taking a “time out,” I’m more of a mountain girl. My favorite August adventure was when I went hiking at Shangri-La, a lake outside Stanley, Idaho that involves crossing over the water and trekking for about two and a half hours before reaching a gorgeous waterfall that spills into the crystal-clear lake - the perfect spot to stop for a lunch break.
So let’s hear from each of you: how are you spending your vacation? What are some of your favorite outdoor activities? Click on “Comments” below and let us all know about your adventures, and what little gems you find during your summer walks.