Whether you are commuting to work or running errands it is important to focus on commuting healthy travel tips. Great strategies and systems help you develop safer routines which enable you to minimize pollution, reduce stress and optimize your energy and time. Many people invest an extensive amount of time commuting for business, errands, pleasure and work. .
Since commuting is a common routine for many and can add up to significant travel time it is very valuable to understand that “prior proper planning prevents pathetically poor performance”. It is important to have written checklists and strategies to help you effectively and efficiently plan each and every trip.
1. Plan your commute in advance. Have a digital checklist or printed one to remind you of goals and to dos for the week. Block errands and grocery shopping with routine trips.
2. Bus, car or van pooling are great choices to save driving time, money and fossil fuel. Subways and trains are other choices for many. There are many advantages to public transportation when you are committed and motivated to being flexible and looking for the many silver linings.
3. When you are driving know your destination and route in advance. Print out directions and a map from the internet to help you navigate.
4. Insure that all passengers use seat belts if they are installed. Even short trips for errands to the market, store or school require safety and vigilance. Riding in a van between the airport and hotel puts you at a greater risk, especially if you are not wearing a safety belt.
5. Make sure your tires and vehicle are properly maintained and inspected for safety. Maintaining your vehicle on a regular basis will help prevent problems and reduce risks.
6. You can use the commuting time wisely to listen to self growth and personal development information. Carry an MP3 player or CD’s with your favorite content. This is great for all types of commute. (Be extra careful when you are driving as the information may distract your attention away from the optimal safety while driving.)
7. Another alternative is to carry an MP3 player or CD’s with your favorite relaxing or soothing music. Some great choices include Baroque, classical, guitar, healing music, instrumental, nature sounds, Native American drumming or flute, piano. Please be sure to use caution while listening to any audio players to insure your safety and well being. Pay attention to your surroundings.
8. Use therapeutic magnet insoles in your shoes for more comfortable walking.
9. Carry a small traveling magnetic pad or to help with specific soreness, stiffness or tension.
10. Use caution when talking or texting on your cell phone. When driving always use a hands free method such as ear piece or cradle system. Keep your talk time to a minimum to avoid being distracted and a risk to others and yourself.
11. Use a pull bag with wheels or back pack to carry computers, electronic devices and files. A heavy briefcase/ computer bag on one shoulder puts excess strain on the neck and shoulder which may cause aches, alignment issues and possibly headaches/ neck aches.
12. Noise reduction headphones or ear plugs may help reduce the distractions and noise pollution that bombard our hearing and overload our minds during commutes on public transportation. Do not use these while operating a vehicle.
13. Avoid being distracted while driving and using GPS devices. Listen to the directions for guidance or pull over / stop at lights to look at the screen for safety. It is better to allow a few minutes for safe viewing than be extremely late due to an accident.
14. Carry water bottles, meals and snacks in a backpack to be prepared for any delays or change of plans.
15. It is not safe to eat burgers, pizza, sandwiches, tacos or other fast foods while driving. Chances are you will not properly chew your food for optimal digestion. Also it is likely that you may drop or spill something that could stain your clothes or the seat.
16. Avoid smoking while driving or a passenger in a vehicle. There is a risk that a spark may burn your clothes or the vehicle fabric. Also the distraction of lighting and smoking may be enough of a distraction to lead to an accident.
17. Carry useful safety equipment and tools in the storage compartment or trunk. You never know when you may need to use them. Carry flares, flashlight, reflectors and signals that are useful for dealing with various conditions.
18. Whenever you ride a bicycle, motorcycle or scooter it is imperative to wear appropriate safety clothing, helmets and reflective vests. Adults and children must develop the mindset of thinking safety first and know the rules of the road before embarking on these forms of transportation.
19. Walking from the garage, station or terminal to the home, office or store requires the same diligence as driving. Be attentive and aware regarding sidewalks, streets and stairs when you are on foot to avoid potential hazards. Be on the look out for cracks, debris and water that may create a hazard. Wear reflective items when walking in dark or poorly lit areas.
20. Look carefully before you step or walk when near traffic areas. It is also imperative to be alert to the buses, cars, trains, trucks and motor cycles that navigate the streets. One distraction on your part or the drivers part could lead to serious injury or worse.
21. Whether you are in a vehicle or outside of one it is important to remain alert and aware of your surroundings. Any alcohol, drugs, over the counter medicine, prescription medicine or even being overly tired can impair your judgment and reaction time which could lead to an accident or injury. Many children and adults every year are injured when commuting because they did not use good judgment and some basic safety precautions. Whether you are riding, running or walking be sure to use common sense and caution. One bad fall or accident can lead to an untimely death, disability or dismemberment. These things happen all the time and the majority could have been easily prevented.
It is everyone’s responsibility to think about and use common sense, courtesy and safety when commuting or traveling. Whether you are being proactive to protect yourself and others from hazards or you are being reactive to a risky situation in the moment, it is imperative to focus on safety at all times to maintain your health and well being. It only takes one accident, fall or mishap to cause a serious injury and financial consequences.
At some point most people find themselves in a situation where being aware of the simple step in these commuting healthy travel tips could help you avert and accident or injury. Investing three minutes to read over these tips and share them with your family is a great investment for your future well being. Remember to be safe out there because no wants to be hurt or hurt another being.
Our next blog post will share: Energizing Exercises without Equipment
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