by Subodh Tiwari,
Secretary General, IYA
The distinguishing feature of a general traveler from a business or corporate traveler is the state of mind. While a person traveling for leisure or personal affairs, would have no heightened state of thoughts, a person traveling for work of business continues with his thinking cap on, even while he is travel. If he/ she is going for a meeting then the preparation, the process and the outcome are important. Many times, right from the time the individual boards the plane the lap top is switched on. Circumventing thinking or work is not a solution, since they are essential part of the journey. However, how can one synthesis work and also not feel the stress and strain is something which one needs to work on.
The aspects which require specific consideration for health care, need to ensure muscles are not stiff and are relaxed and mind is not at a burn out pace.
Kaivalyadhama has been engaged in scientific research in Yoga since 1924. Much of evidence gathered provides for simple measures to tackle your stiff ness and calming your mind. Simple suggestions towards your dietetics would also go a long way while traveling, to enhance quality of travel and health.
Pointers :
Walking at the gate while waiting to board is better than sitting and waiting. You are going to be seated anyways in the flight.
Having fruits and nuts as snacks is better option than others. Not processed.
Simple stretches , putting hands together and pressing , stretching hands upwards while you are seated . ( Parvatasana) . Gentle rotation of your neck . ( Brahmudra) . Gentle stretching your toes and rotation in clock wise and anticlockwise. Squeezing hip muscle , holding for few seconds and letting go. This simple practices repeated during flight will make a lot of difference.
Manipulating of breath in a flight with recycled air may not be the best idea. However, closing your eyes and repeating a chant or a syllabi would be of great help. For example a low pitch humming ( Brahmari ) is known to enhance nitric oxide in your nostril . This is excellent for your mind.
If you carry a music listening device, then loading it with an instrumental music which is relaxing is a very good idea. This will help you sleep better.
Covering your eyes will cut down on the light and will release melatonin. Thus, enabling you to sleep better.
Following the above, will make the journey pleasurable, better and with no discomfort to your fellow travelers.