Wellness guru Jojo Struys: How to cope with stress while travelling

SINGAPORE — Every time-pressed, efficiency-loving Singaporean would be familiar with the travel routine of trying to “whack in” as many sights as possible during a holiday.

But we might want to reconsider that plan — as it is probably not the best way to relax on a trip.

“Don’t be too ambitious in terms of seeing everything in such a limited time-frame,” advised TV host and wellness sage Jojo Struys.

She is the author of a guidebook to wellness (Jojo Struys’s Guide to Wellness) and host of TLC channel’s Jojo’s Diary Of Asia programme, which looks at how people across the region cope with stress.

The Singapore-born but Malaysia-based Struys announced her latest adventure last week: She is now a Westin Well-Being Brand Advocate and she will curate and host two Westin Wellness Escapes in Malaysia this year.

“The Westin Brand and I share the same passion for well-being. I also travel extensively for both work and leisure, so I’m always on the go — and I’d share my stories in travel articles,” she said.

Q: What are the most therapeutic destinations you’ve been to?

A: I feel Japan has an incredible onsen (hot springs) culture, which is not only amazingly stress-relieving for stiff joints and a tired body, but it’s also therapeutic and rejuvenating for the mind.

I loved Australia for its great outdoors. The fresh air, the incredible ocean and blue skies are breathtaking. I also visited the world’s largest inland sand dunes in Pemberton, Western Australia. It was a sight to behold. You feel as if you’re the only soul on Earth. There’s something very calming and soul-enriching about being in nature. It effortlessly slows down the pace of our thoughts. I loved the rustic charm of Nepal. It’s a slower pace of life and the people are so friendly, so beautiful and it was like stepping back in time.

Q: What do you think prevents travellers from truly relaxing on their trips?

A: When their minds are not free because they still need to check their work email and tend to things. It’s very tough to be present if your mind is bothered by work. And when people plan to see and do so much. This is why I like travelling to a place I’ve already been to before, so there’s no need to sightsee or do anything in particular. You feel a sense of freedom to just spend time at your own leisure without the pressure of needing to hit all the sights.

Q: What is the best way to cope with stress while travelling?

A: I think it’s best to always travel with an open mind and with no expectations so you won’t be disappointed. It’s all part of the adventure of travelling. Things will not always go according to plan.

Q: How can we eat and sleep better in a foreign country?

A: Meditation and breathing techniques help me relax anywhere, even in a traffic jam. There are simple yoga poses you can also do before bedtime that can help the body relax and allow the mind to unwind. Sometimes, people don’t mentally switch off and they’re checking their phones right up to the last minute. Avoid doing it when preparing for a good night’s sleep. I always try to have meals cooked from fresh ingredients.

Q: Lastly, where are your favourite spots in Malaysia to relax?

A: I find it therapeutic just sitting on a beach, listening to the sound of the waves. The float at Westin Langkawi is stunning too. I love watching the sunsets there. There’s something very serene and romantic about taking a stroll down that bridge. Serene Lim