Vacation unplugged
Last week I took a trip with my family to Sanibel Island, FL for Spring Break. Though I usually crave a workout first thing in the morning (post coffee, of course) I decided to relax into vacation a little bit. It also helped that phone and internet service were spotty at best - it made the decision to set these things aside for the week much easier. I never once opened my computer. Although I still got a handful of workout sessions and beach runs in, the majority of my mornings were spent taking walks and building sand castles with my husband and kids. I admit that I plan my day around a workout and staying active - I'm sure many of you can relate! It's an energy and spirit booster for me. But I allowed myself to take it easier this week. I was able to convince some of my family to take a standup paddle board "eco tour" for 2 hours one morning through the mangroves and waterways of the island. I searched the internet and was so lucky to discover Dalia, the lovely owner of Yolo Board Adventures. We took a guided tour and saw beautiful Florida wildlife, and were even lucky enough to paddle up next to some dolphins.
My six year old came along for the ride on the front of my board, and loved every minute of this beautiful experience. We had a fantastic young tourguide, Taylor, who paused with us a few times to try out some SUP yoga that even appealed to my daughter.
My point is (though I still am a true believer in breaking a good sweat everyday, especially on vacation when we tend to over-indulge) that we all could stand to unplug and unwind for a moment. Let our minds quiet and slow down. Stop counting steps and just enjoy where each step takes you. Staying active can be part of your vacation by finding new ways to keep moving that might be unique to that area. We got to spend time together as a family, we learned a little bit about the Florida wildlife, and we all got moving!
Dalia Jakubauskas and her husband, Mark Melancon, give SUP lessons and tours to all ages and experience levels. They are both fitness and water experts and enthusiasts and are active in their community in the fitness and the environmental world. Read more about them here and be sure to check them out when you find yourself in the Sanibel/Captiva area!