Staying Healthy on Holidays: Tips From a Yoga Queen

A successful holiday doesn’t have to be “flop and drop”. We can relax while staying active, trying active adventures and exploring new parts of the world.

But how? We speak to yoga instructor Charlotte Dodson about her idea of a dream holiday plus how to avoid throwing our health goals out the aeroplane window.

Dodson has pioneered a positive movement style where “your attitude becomes your strength.” It’s well loved by celebrities including Miranda Kerr, Gerard Butler and Orlando Bloom.

What sort of holidays do you enjoy?

I really love well-rounded holidays with diverse experiences like spa relaxation, an element of culture and a chance to meet with local people to connect with the heart of the place, exciting adventures, and a touch of indulgence. What's even more thrilling is exploring new places. It all combines to make a memorable and balanced getaway.

What do you love about focussing on wellbeing on holiday?

Engaging in yoga and meditation in stunning, remote settings allows you to centre yourself. Disconnecting from technology enables you to fully savour the present and life's simple pleasures. Holidays also give you the luxury of catching up on sleep, which is essential for your wellbeing.

Where is your favourite place in the world?

Bondi is my absolute favourite place. I've spent most of my life here. The beach is stunning, the culture is lively, and the views are incredible. But what truly makes it special is the vibrant local scene and the cosy seaside ambience. Bondi isn't just a location; it's where I've crafted countless memories and a place I proudly call home.

How can we stay healthy on holidays?

The goal is to strike a balance between indulgence and maintaining your health on holidays. It's perfectly fine to enjoy local delicacies, but doing so in moderation and staying active helps you stay healthy while fully enjoying your holiday experience.

1. Consistent routine: Try to establish a daily exercise routine even while on vacation to stay on track with your fitness goals. Create achievable fitness goals for your holiday, whether it's tracking your daily steps or trying new activities.

2. Active excursions: Staying active on holiday doesn't require excessive time in the gym. By incorporating movement into your daily activities and choosing health-conscious options, you can fully enjoy your holidays while staying fit and healthy.

When exploring destinations, opt for excursions that involve activities like hiking, snorkelling, or biking to remain active while sightseeing. Book in a yoga class or find one online, to progress and enhance flexibility, strength, and overall wellbeing.

3. Mindful eating and drinking: While savouring delicious cuisine, practice portion control and choose lighter, healthier options. Maintain good hydration to avoid fatigue and overeating during your vacation.

Charlotte Dodson is embarking on a dedicated Wellness Cruise in November 2023, in partnership with Captain Cook Cruises Fiji. The Fijian cruise includes yoga classes with Dodson as well as active adventures such as kayaking, ocean swimming, snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding.