Ever feel like you need a rest after your “relaxing” vacation? Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your time away and return home feeling rejuvenated and energized:

1. Stay Hydrated

One of the best ways to keep your energy level up is to drink plenty of filtered water. Aim to drink at least one-third of your body weight in ounces each day to offset the side effects of over-consumption of alcohol, “vacation” diet,  time spent in the sun, and the fact that travel itself can be stressful and draining. Start early and drink water steadily throughout the day. A hydrated body is a more efficient body. In addition to helping you feel great, hydration is also one of the keys to healthy looking skin. If your vacation plans involve flying, make an extra effort to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your flight, while limiting caffeine and alcohol.

 2. Add These Foods To Offset Dietary Splurges

Inflammation can be protective, such as when our bodies respond to injury. But chronic inflammation — in response to a steady diet of processed foods, sugar, alcohol and inadequate sleep — is a different story altogether. This often happens when we’re away from home and why we end up feeling not so great when vacation is over.

It’s important, even necessary, to take a break from our hectic schedules at least a few times a year. But we don’t do ourselves any favors when those breaks include ditching all health-promoting food and our usual healthy habits! Don’t get me wrong: you can (and should) still enjoy your favorite vacation foods, just do your best to offset the splurges with healing foods so you return home feeling rested instead of bloated. Simply adding certain foods to your diet will cool down that inflammation: vegetables (no, not French fries!), fruits (especially berries), nuts, seeds and small amounts of healthy oils like avocados and olive oil will do the trick. Also, herbs such as ginger, turmeric, basil and rosemary have tremendous healing properties.

3. Move Your Body

It doesn’t have to be intense, but try to squeeze in 20 to 30 minutes of active time each day. Ride a bike, go for a run or a power walk. Take a hike or enjoy a swim. Exercise helps you sleep more soundly and is the antidote for extra calories and brain fog from too much sugar or alcohol. Plus, if you know you’re going to be active the next day, you’ll be more mindful of how you’re fueling your body.

Have fun on vacation and be mindful of these small steps to help you feel your best. Your body will thank you!