At the end of August, Lee and I took an Alaskan cruise — a trip we’ll never forget. We expected chilly, gray days, but instead we were blessed with more sunshine than we ever imagined and comfortable temperatures that made exploring a joy.
Cruises often get the reputation of being endless buffets and lounging by the pool, but I looked at it as a chance to practice what I share with my clients all the time: balance.
Did I enjoy myself? Absolutely. I had dessert a few nights, sipped cocktails (my favorite was a gin-based drink with elderflower and lemon), and ate some of the freshest fish I’ve ever tasted. I even treated myself to a foot massage at the spa. But I also made choices that helped me feel good during and after the trip.
Lee and I walked everywhere — even taking the stairs up to the lido deck instead of the elevator. After dinner, we’d either stroll the ship’s outdoor lap track (seven laps equals a mile!) or head to the gym for a treadmill walk. At each port, we explored on foot and racked up plenty of steps. I fit in short gym sessions most days and even tried a Pilates class.
Meals were both fun and nourishing. At the breakfast buffet, I built a version of my normal breakfast: eggs from the omelet station, roasted veggies, and guacamole I found at the taco bar. Lunch was often a salad with protein, sometimes even a hamburger, and dinner struck the perfect balance of taste and portion.
We also joined the ship’s spa for the week — soaking in the hot tubs and relaxing in the steam rooms each day. It was a wonderful mix of movement, rest, and enjoyment.
One thing I found especially interesting about cruising was how easy it would have been to overdo it. With the package we signed up for (I think it was called Princess Plus), I had access to just two included exercise classes for the whole week — but could have had two premium desserts every single day. Food was truly everywhere: buffets, dining rooms, pizza stations, hamburger grills, a gelato shop, cafés with pastries, and bars at every turn. You could even have food delivered right to your room.
That abundance really highlighted something for me: it takes intention to enjoy without overindulging. And the same is true for vacations, holidays, or even just a busy week at home.
Here are a few simple things that helped me keep balance on board (and that you can use on your next trip too):
- Take the stairs whenever possible. It’s an easy way to sneak in extra movement throughout the day.
- Walk after meals. Whether it’s a stroll around the deck or through town at a port, it helps with digestion and energy.
- Prioritize protein. Starting meals with protein (like eggs, fish, or lean meats) keeps you satisfied and helps avoid the “endless snacking” trap.
- Stay hydrated. With travel, cocktails, and salty foods, water is your best friend for keeping energy steady.
The best part? I came home feeling energized, refreshed, and grateful — not sluggish or weighed down. And that’s really the lesson: health isn’t about perfection, it’s about intention. I didn’t count calories or avoid every indulgence. Instead, I asked myself, What will help me feel my best while still enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime trip?
That same mindset works whether you’re traveling, heading into the holidays, or just navigating a busy week at home. It’s about weaving in movement, choosing foods that fuel you, and leaving space for the joys along the way.
