7 Surprising Insights from a Devon Adventure

We all deserve a break now and then, and often, taking time away from our daily routines can lead to valuable insights that improve our overall wellness. Recently, I embarked on a 9-day trip to Devon and discovered some eye-opening lessons that have enhanced my mental well-being and transformed my fitness journey. In this blog post, I'll share these lessons with you so you can harness their power to unlock your full fitness potential and lead a healthier lifestyle.

1. A change of scenery is a powerful mood booster.

Being in a different environment can significantly improve your mood and overall mental health. This fresh perspective inspires you to try new workouts and activities, which keeps your fitness journey exciting and engaging. For example, if you usually exercise indoors, consider taking your training outside to a nearby park or beach. Exposure to nature and the change of environment will boost your mood and provide a new, stimulating experience for your body and mind.

2. Time away gives you space to think and create your future.

During your break, you'll have plenty of time to reflect on your goals and aspirations, both fitness-related and otherwise. With fewer distractions and more headspace, you can gain clarity on what you truly want in life and set actionable plans to achieve your fitness goals. Consider journaling or meditating during your time away to help you visualise your goals and develop a roadmap for achieving them.

3. Breaks act as a "circuit breaker" for habit change.

Our daily routines often reinforce habits, both good and bad. Taking a break disrupts these patterns, making it easier to let go of detrimental habits and form new, healthier ones. For instance, if you spend your evenings watching TV and tend to snack on unhealthy foods while watching, use your time away to replace this habit with a healthier alternative, such as an evening walk, reading a book, doing some puzzles, and enjoying a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts instead.

4. Declutter your life by identifying what truly matters.

When we're caught up in our day-to-day lives, it's easy to accumulate physical and mental clutter. Taking a step back during your break allows you to assess what truly brings value to your life, including your fitness routine and nutrition choices. For example, if you own multiple pieces of exercise equipment that no longer serve you, consider donating or selling them to create more space for activities that align with your goals and values.

5. Embrace the power of rest and relaxation.

Rest and recovery are crucial for achieving your fitness goals. During your break, rediscover the importance of listening to your body and giving it the time it needs to heal and recharge. Try incorporating gentle activities, such as yoga or stretching, into your daily routine, and make sure to prioritise rest days and self-care in your fitness journey, as they are essential for maintaining your overall well-being.

6. Use your break to explore new physical activities.

Trying out new activities keeps your workouts fresh and exciting. A trip away can introduce you to great outdoor activities that you might not have considered before, such as hiking or kayaking or paddle boarding in the sea. During my Devon escape, I discovered the exhilarating experience of coastal walks, which provided breathtaking views and challenged my body in new ways. Experiment with different exercises and activities during your breaks to find new ways to stay active and fit.

7. Reevaluate your nutrition habits.

Taking time away from our usual routines allows us to reflect on our eating habits and make healthier choices. Use your break to reassess your diet and consider incorporating more nutritious foods that will fuel your body and help you reach your fitness goals. For example, try experimenting with new recipes or local ingredients. These simple changes can significantly impact your overall health and well-being.

These seven life-changing lessons from my Devon escape have the power to transform your fitness journey and improve your overall wellness. Remember that nurturing your mind, body, and soul is essential to achieving your full fitness potential, no matter your age. So, go ahead and give yourself the gift of a break – you deserve it!