these recent blog posts

“Land was created to provide a place for boats to visit”

Brooks Atkinson

I recently went on a couple of cruises, which tested my willpower. If you have never been on a cruise, there is plenty of food all around, all the time. Most cruises include a buffet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On the cruise ship I went on, there was also a place to get unlimited pizza. And it was so good! There was also a soft-serve machine where you could get unlimited soft-serve ice cream. There was just lots of food everywhere! I’m not complaining, but it was hard to hold back for someone who wants to maintain my weight and not have my stomach hurt from overeating.

Cruises also have entertainment all over the ship like Broadway shows, comedians, live music, DJs, casino, and theme nights.

With Covid-19 still present, it can be a concern with the number of people on board. However, our ship was huge and wasn’t at full capacity, so I didn’t feel nervous about getting sick.

Here are some tips on managing all the good food and returning home healthy, not gaining many pounds. Lol. :

1. Wash hands often. The cruise ship I went on did an excellent job telling everyone to wash their hands before entering the buffet area. They would stand at the entrance and ask you to wash your hands, and I saw everyone that entered wash their hands. Also, my cruise ship sang jingles to get people to wash their hands. It was hilarious. You could also find hand sanitizers all over the boat.
2. Exercise. Before each meal, my husband and I would walk around the whole ship a few times. Then, after each meal, we walked again. In addition, on days we were at sea, we worked out at the gym in the morning.
3. Look at the menu ahead of time and plan what to eat. Then, see what healthy items you can order.
4. Make sure to include healthy protein, vegetables, and fruit on your plate. Limit carbs and sweets as much as you can.
5. Try to stick to the same sleep schedule back home or make sure to get enough sleep. When you don’t get enough sleep, it can affect your decision-making. For example, you’ll be more likely to get a slice of pizza than a salad after a lack of sleep.
6. Drink enough water. Bring your water bottle and carry it around the ship to ensure you stay hydrated. Make sure to drink even more when you drink alcoholic beverages.
7. Relax. It’s nice to just lay out by the pool and relax. Relaxation slows the heart rate, reduces blood pressure, and can relieve tension.
8. Choose excursions that involve exercises like hiking, walking, or kayaking.
9. Sign up for healthy activities. There are all kinds of fitness classes on cruise ships. For example, my cruise had Zumba, basketball tournaments, and pickleball.

If you have been on a cruise, how did you stay healthy?

Cheers to healthy travels,

Robin