Vacation used to mean two things: complete chaos with food… and coming home feeling like I needed to “fix it.” I’d overdo it, feel sluggish, bloated, frustrated, and promise myself I’d restrict or hit the gym twice as hard when I got back. Not anymore.
Now? Vacation still feels like a break—but it doesn’t leave me feeling like I need to recover from it.
Here’s what I do to enjoy the trip and still feel good while I’m away:
☀️ Start My Morning Grounded
Vacation or not, my favorite rhythm stays the same: coffee + quiet time. Jesus first. That’s my soul care—my true self care. Even 10 minutes with my Bible and a quick prayer helps me shift my mindset from control to surrender. It keeps food guilt and diet culture thoughts from sneaking back in. And if I miss church while I’m away, I’ll listen to the sermon while on a walk or the plane it it’s easy.
🏃Move, But Don’t Obsess
Movement on vacation looks different—but it’s still there. It might be walking the beach, doing a quick 10-minute strength circuit (pushups/burpees) in the condo or hotel gym, or exploring a city all day. Some days are full of steps, some are slower. But moving my body helps me feel strong, energized, and clear-headed. I don’t do it to “burn off” food—just because I it feel so good after. And let’s be honest, on vacation I finally have all the time!
🥗🍩 Balanced Eating, Not Perfect Eating
Yes, I eat the bread. Yes, I order dessert. But I still try to keep my meals balanced-ish, especially earlier in the day. I’ve learned from experience (and my CGM!) that having protein first helps keep my blood sugar stable, energy up, and mood even. So I aim for protein-heavy breakfasts and lunches, then enjoy more indulgent dinners since dinner won’t affect my cravings and crashes all day like bfast and lunch do.
Little hacks I swear by:
✅ If I want a donut, I eat eggs or some protein first.
✅ I bring easy protein/fiber backups (like my protein powder, psyllium husk, and bars) in case options are limited.
✅ I eat bread with my protein instead of solo to avoid the crash-and-crave cycle.
✅ And yes, I pack dark chocolate for a sweet treat that doesn’t spike me.
🧳 My Vacation Toolbox
I pack a few things to keep me feeling good:
✅ My vitamin regimen
✅ Electrolytes for hydration (huge if you’re in the sun, flying, or drinking more alcohol)
✅ Protein + fiber travel staples
✅ A book or podcast that isn’t about health or work so I’m really on vacation
✅ Boundaries (so I’m not “accidentally working” the whole time)
💡 Quick Vacation Tips That Work
👉 Stick with overnight fasting and light or some type of movement most days.
👉 Prioritize protein at every meal—it’s your anchor.
👉 Save indulgences for dinner so your day isn’t ruled by cravings.
👉 Hydrate like it’s your job.
👉 Have fun and release the guilt. Maintenance is progress. And you might even lose while still enjoying vacation foods when your body feels safe and supported.
This isn’t a “vacation plan.” This is just how I live now—with tools that support me and room for fun. Because vacation should be refreshing, not something you recover from.
