7 tips to maintain your mental wellbeing on tour.
Tour life can be intense and chaotic, but incorporating a few daily routines can help maintain one's mental and physical well-being. Here are some suggestions:
- Exercise: Incorporating physical activity into one's daily routine is important for physical and mental health. Exercise helps release tension and stress, boosts energy levels, and can improve mood. Simple activities like stretching, yoga, jogging, or strength training can be done in a small space and do not require any special equipment. Find a sports equipment store near your first venue and get yourself a mat, a kettlebell and maybe some elastic bands and you are good to go.
- Nutrition: Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is important for maintaining physical and mental well-being on the road. Eating junk food and consuming too much caffeine and alcohol can lead to feelings of fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Try to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you are touring with a nightliner, things are slightly easier, as there is storage space and most likely, a fridge where you can stock various healthy snacks and high on protein stuff like Skyr or Cottage Cheese.
- Quiet time: Taking time for reflection, meditation, or journaling can provide a much-needed break from the chaos of touring. Quiet time can help one focus and reflect on their experiences, thoughts, and feelings. This can be as simple as taking a few moments each day to close your eyes, breathe deeply, and let your mind wander.
- Connect with loved ones: Touring can be lonely, and staying connected with friends and family back home can help alleviate feelings of homesickness and loneliness. Try to set aside time each day to call or video chat with loved ones, and keep in touch through texts or emails.
- Reading: Reading can be a great way to pass the time during travel or downtime, and can provide a welcome distraction from the stress of touring. Whether it's a novel, a magazine, or a travel guide, reading can be a great way to unwind and escape from reality for a little while.
- Sleep: Getting adequate rest is crucial for physical and mental health, and is especially important for those on tour. Try to establish a regular sleep schedule and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or listening to soft music, can help improve the quality of sleep.
Don't let the FOMO get in the way. Get that sleep in. It's really important. - Fun and leisure activities: Incorporating leisure activities into one's daily routine can help maintain a positive outlook and provide a much-needed break from the rigors of touring. This can be as simple as playing an instrument, watching a movie, playing games, or exploring the local area. Engaging in fun activities can help relieve stress, boost mood, and provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.