Healthy Nomad Life: Managing Body and Mind While Traveling

During my first 6 months of nomad life, I gained noticeable weight. Sitting at cafes working all day, eating out constantly, exercise forgotten. One day I looked in the mirror and thought "this is getting serious." That's when I started paying attention to health. Staying healthy while nomading isn't easy, but here's what I'm doing.

Exercise: Walking and Running

Joining a gym and going regularly would be great, but realistically it's hard for nomads who move cities every few months. So I mainly walk and run. No equipment needed, can do it anywhere.

When I arrive in a new city, I deliberately walk a lot. Exploring neighborhoods while sightseeing, I often hit over 10,000 steps a day. It's surprisingly good exercise. Loosens up the body that gets stiff from sitting all day.

When I have time, I go running. Waking up and running for about 30 minutes starts the day feeling refreshed. Southeast Asia is hot even in the morning, but going out before sunrise makes it bearable.

Food: Being Honest

One of the biggest challenges of nomad life is food. Even with accommodation that has a kitchen, you often end up eating out.

Honestly, in cheap countries I just eat out. In Southeast Asia, a decent meal costs $3-4, so there's little reason to cook myself. But in expensive places like the US, I cook. Otherwise food costs become unmanageable.

I know developing cooking habits would be healthier and save money. I want to do that someday, but for now I'm choosing convenience. Though when eating out, I consciously try to get vegetables. Not perfect, but better than nothing.

I do drink lots of water. It's easy to get dehydrated in hot countries, and without enough water you get tired and lose focus. I always carry a water bottle and drink throughout the day.

Mental Health: Loneliness and Burnout

Honestly, mental health is the hardest to manage in nomad life. The first few months are exciting, but loneliness creeps in over time. Even constantly meeting new people, it's hard to build deep relationships.

I meet people at coworking spaces or attend nomad meetups. It's awkward at first, but talking to people living similar lives brings comfort.

I keep in touch with friends back home occasionally. Honestly, I don't manage regular calls. Time differences and busy schedules make contact sparse. I keep thinking I should reach out more, but it's hard in reality.

Burnout is another concern. Working while traveling looks exciting, but when work and rest boundaries disappear, you get exhausted. I try to consciously create rest days. Just sightseeing or doing nothing.

Conclusion: Perfection Not Required

Health is fundamental for long-term nomad life. It's easy to postpone with "I'll do it later," but once your body breaks down, it's too late.

Perfection isn't necessary. I'm still lacking in many ways. I skip workouts, eat out too much, don't contact friends enough. What matters isn't being perfect, but paying at least some attention. Even just walking, drinking water. Start with small things.