When travelling is a significant part of your career, it’s essential to create a routine that benefits your mental well-being. Adwoa Aboah, the British model and cover star, has mastered the art of travel while promoting her role as a mental health activist.
What Travelling Means to Me
“I love travelling. However, my relationship with travel changed because of the pandemic, and I realized how much I took it for granted. Travel has always been integral to my job, which sometimes makes it feel like it’s taking me away from my personal life. Hence, I actively seek a balance by ensuring I undertake personal trips as well, not solely work-related ones.”
Create a Non-Negotiable On-Flight Routine
“I consistently wipe down my area as soon as I board the plane. I sanitize everything because planes can be quite dirty.”
Have a Jet Lag Plan
“I manage jet lag effectively by beginning work immediately upon landing. This approach helps me transition better than when I have unstructured time. For instance, on a recent trip to LA, I found that having days off before work led to anxiety due to fatigue. Now, I prefer to minimize downtime after long flights.”
Prep for Sleep
“I’ve struggled with sleep and have developed a pre-sleep routine. I avoid watching TV and prepare for bed well in advance. Baths help me relax, and I incorporate reading as part of my routine.”
Set Your Own Self-Care Boundaries
“It’s crucial to establish personal boundaries. I’ve become more proactive in ensuring I carve out time for myself, which has evolved from a luxury to a necessity. I integrate activities like pilates and socializing into my schedule, understanding that it’s vital to prioritize my mental health.”
Build in Flexibility
“Flexibility is essential. Some mornings I have a structured routine, while other times I may wake up feeling off and need to adjust my day accordingly. Kindness and acknowledgment of my feelings have become key elements in managing my well-being.”
Investigate What Self-Care Means for You
“Self-care is unique to each individual. It’s essential to explore what genuinely makes you feel secure and cared for. Whether it’s spending time with certain people, journaling, or even moments of quiet, finding your self-care practices can significantly enhance your mental health.”
