We've all been there. We have a great routine. A rhythm that works. Then we go on a trip, and it all falls apart. We struggle to keep something going that worked for us in our usual habitat. It becomes stressful and difficult. Often we end up not doing it at all.

A spiritual practice has so many benefits for all areas of our lives, that it is something we really don't want to miss. Teeth can get pretty gross when we forget to brush them, even if it's just once. We feel it because we've been trained to notice the difference from a young age.

This is not the case with a spiritual practice. At least, for many of us. We don't grow up with pre-school teachers talking about the importance of spirituality to help ground and center us. Not in a way where we learn to discover what practices work for the unique person that we all are. While prayer might work for some, the temperament of others might demand silent meditation while others prefer a free flowing practice that always changes and again others find alignment in mantras, or body postures, singing, or sitting down before an altar.

We are also not the same person when we travel. Every place in the world has an impact on how we express ourselves as a person. The biggest mistake we can make is to assume that what works for us at home also works for us when we travel.

Here are 3 easy ways to help you keep your spiritual practice going when you travel:

1. Give yourself time to become aware of your rhythm on the road or the place you have traveled to. Notice if the same time to show up to your spiritual practice works for you in this environment. At times travel can be very busy. In that case, having a daily spiritual practice becomes all about seizing the moment when it appears, however fleeting or liminal.
2. Anchor your spiritual practice into an item that is meaningful to you. Make it part of your practice when you are at home. This can be as simple as placing it before you or holding it in your hand for the duration of your practice. It can be a small stone you found, a piece of jewelry, or small statue. Choose something that works for you and is easy to travel with. On your travels, the simple act of unpacking the item can become a powerful reminder to show up to your spiritual practice. The physical act of picking it up or placing it before you can make it very easy to do your practice.
3. Travel can be very tiring and sometimes there is no practice more important than resting and taking it slow. Intentional daydreaming can be a wonderful way to get the rest you need while getting the benefits of a spiritual practice that is very grounding and centering. Sit in a place where you can be undisturbed. Perhaps there is a nice view where you are, or a sweet place in nature. The corner of a couch in a busy room is also perfectly fine, as long as you can be with your thoughts. Soften the focus of your gaze and allow your thoughts to drift. Pay attention to your thoughts, let them flow and ebb. Notice what they circle around, and allow yourself to dream. Do this until you feel a sense of closure. Often this can feel like something organized itself internally, or integrated, even if we don't know exactly what it is.

These are three easy ways to keep your spiritual practice going when you travel.

Do you prefer to be guided in your spiritual practices? Would you love it if you could just reach out to someone and say you need a calming practice for on the road that is no longer than 5 minutes? Or perhaps you would love to deepen your studies of ancient mystery teachings as you relax on vacation? Our Magic is the Key membership has it all. With over 200 lessons and practices, there is something to meet wherever you are on your spiritual journey. Our librarian is always available to guide you to what you are looking for. Click below to sign up!

May your travels be safe and beautiful.