Wellness Tips for Your Next Flexcation
This post was written in partnership Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism; however, all information in this post reflects my personal opinion.
Flexcations became a popular trend at the beginning of the pandemic, and I believe flexcations are here to stay. The popular trend of renting vacation homes later in August, September, and October and mixing work and play gives families the flexibility to travel (often at much lower rates) to high-demand locales. In addition to mixing work and play, Flexcations lend themselves well to those looking to prioritize wellness. I want to share some wellness tips for your next flexcation to help you prioritize yourself during your getaway!
As an Alabama native, one of my favorite places to flexcation is the Alabama Gulf Coast. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach serve as my family’s go-to destination when we want to escape our busy lives and simply relax. The Alabama Gulf Coast is also the perfect place for a getaway with your friends and it’s ideal for a couples’ trip, too!
But you know what else? The Alabama Gulf Coast has everything you need for a wellness flexcation! You can absolutely mix work, play, and self-care in your next trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Let’s talk about how:
Wellness Tips for Your Next Flexcation
1. Choose the right destination.
One key factor for planning your wellness flexcation is to choose the right destination. You want to be intentional about choosing a locale that is appealing to you but is also comfortable, convenient, and relaxing. Do some research and make sure that the area you choose has things for you (and your family) to enjoy, yet also provides the ability for you to practice self-care and revive your spirit.
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach check all the boxes. Here, you’ll find all kinds of fun activities for you and your family to enjoy, yet you’ll also have access to lovely places to relax and unwind.
2. Plan your flexcation accordingly.
Have you ever returned home from a vacation and felt like you needed another break to recuperate from that one? I know I’ve been guilty of scheduling too many activities for my vacation only to return home exhausted, mentally drained, and uninspired to return to work. When planning a flexcation, make sure to consider time for work, play, and relaxation so that you get the most out of your trip. Wellness is all about finding balance.
3. Schedule some alone time.
Even if you’re flexcationing with your family, schedule some alone time for self-care. Use this extended time away from home to hone in on your health and wellness and focus on you for a bit. If you don’t want to miss out on any of the fun activities that your family may be doing, maybe you can schedule some time early in the morning to go for a walk on the beach. Or, perhaps you can stay up a little later and sit on the balcony of your beach rental and enjoy some time to yourself. Spending some time alone has many wellness benefits. During this time, you can focus on your priorities and reflect on yourself without being interrupted.
4. Take time to rest.
Oftentimes, we fill our vacation schedules up with so many activities and events and seldom schedule enough time to rest. A huge benefit of a flexcation is the extended time that has plenty enough room for rest. The Alabama Gulf Coast boasts over 18,000 vacation rentals, many of which are perfect for some quality rest and relaxation.
5. Write in a journal.
Writing is therapeutic. So much so that PsychCentral lists three different types of writing that are beneficial to your wellness. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer the perfect backdrop for some quality writing time that can help you clear the clutter from your mind. Find a quiet, relaxing place, grab your journal and pen, and get busy journaling your thoughts.
6. Limit screen time.
Because flexcations include remote working, you need to be intentional about limiting your screen time. Since you’re likely tied to your computer to complete your work tasks, you’ll want to find other things to do with your time when you’re not required to be using your device. To achieve the maximum benefit of your flexcation, limit your screen time so that you can enjoy yourself. Balance is an essential component of your well-being. Plus, there are so many things to do at the Alabama Gulf Coast that you won’t want to waste your time glued to a device.
7. Start your day with mindfulness.
Mindfulness is all the buzz right now. There’s a good reason for that. Purposely bringing your attention to the present moment is an excellent way for you to be grateful for the people and things around you. Have you ever seen a sunrise at the beach? If not, you’ll want to set your alarm so that you can start your day with a sunrise and some mindfulness. There is so much beauty and peace in an Alabama Gulf Coast sunrise. Make sure to add this practice to your flexcation to-do list.
8. Immerse yourself in nature.
Getting outside in nature is an activity that you’ll see on wellness tip lists over and over again. The Alabama Gulf Coast is home to Gulf State Park, which offers several outdoor adventures that are sure to be a perfect addition to your flexcation. You can go fishing, hiking, or you can hop a Segway to explore the park’s 6,150 acres.
And if you want to include some learning while you’re there, stop by the Learning Campus or the Nature Center. These are fun activities to add to the kids’ remote learning experience.
9. Exercise.
Exercising is beneficial for physical and mental wellness. Make sure to schedule some time for exercising while you’re on your flexcation. Probably the most popular exercise while at the Alabama Gulf Coast is walking or running along the beach. However, if that’s not your jam, several beach rentals include access to a workout facility. Additionally, some local gyms and fitness centers may offer short-term passes so that you can utilize their facilities.
10. Find a local spa.
I don’t know about you, but I love a little pampering every now and then. If you flexcation in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, check out one of the local spas to get a massage. If you prefer an in-room (or beachside) massage, you can contact The Beach Moms to help you set that up!
Are you wondering who The Beach Moms are? Check out this blog post to learn more about the services they offer!
11. Stay hydrated.
Hydration is an important part of wellness. Of course, water is the best drink when it comes to hydration. However, other drinks besides water will help you stay hydrated. Make sure that your flexcation includes you being intentional about staying hydrated so that you can remain healthy throughout the duration of your trip.
Flexcations are not only a great way to combine vacationing with remote working and virtual learning, but they also serve as the perfect opportunity to focus on your overall well-being.
