Hello, truckers! I want to share an important fact before we get down to business. According to Corporate Wellness Magazine, “Nearly 1 of every 15 people in the workforce is employed in the trucking industry, including over 7 million truck drivers on our roads.” That’s a lot.
While it’s unfortunate, stats have suggested that truck drivers are among the unhealthiest populations in America, mostly due to the particular lifestyle and lack of good nutritional options on the road. We must change this now! Who is with me?
Driving, although somewhat stressful at times, is a perfect opportunity for developing mindfulness, or a kind of meditation practice, if you will. Don’t worry, it’s not what you think, as Eden Kozlowski mentions in a Huffington Post article: “You don’t need incense, an exotic location or to be transported to some elevated state of being. Your truck can be your sanctuary.”
With that said, let’s take a look at some ways to attain the state that enables you to reduce stress, maintain a healthy diet, and improve your quality of life:
Turn off the Radio and Enjoy the Silence
Yes, I’m referring to music, advertisements, and the news. Being in silence gives you the ability to fill your awareness with thoughts and perceptions, allowing your mind and body to relax more than ever. Engage in how your body feels—what is it that makes you feel good, tired, or happy?
Appreciate Your Surroundings
When you’re on the road, do you ever stop to fully experience your beautiful surroundings? Even though green landscapes may not appear everywhere you roam, it’s encouraged to appreciate the scenery when it’s there. Eden says, “Life can be incredibly repetitive, especially when on the road. So, if you are going to be ‘in it,’ participate and make it more.”
Shift Over to the Slow Lane
Sounds boring, right? Well, if you’re trying to be more mindful, driving a tad below the speed limit can eliminate a lot of tension. Shift over to the slow lane and allow drivers to pass you if necessary. Hey, you can even wish them well!
Eat More Healthy Food
Part of being mindful is eating enjoyable and nutritious food while being aware of the nourishment you are consuming. Eden says that this practice “opens the door for you to see how important you are, how important food is, and how it provides nourishment not just for your body but also your soul.”
I do admit—it takes commitment and determination to attain mindfulness, but once you get the hang of it, I have no doubt that you will feel amazing effects. Eden says that with mindfulness, “You eventually start to trust life more, trust yourself more, you start to look at the bigger picture instead of all the clogging minutia.” That’s a big 10-4.
Do you have some tips on how to stay mindful on the road? Or maybe you would like to share some highlights from your own wellness journey. Either way, drop us a line on Facebook or Twitter! We love hearing from you, Trucking Nation!
And remember, if you haven’t done so already, it’s time to e-file your HVUT to avoid penalties!