How to Have a Healthier Daily Commute
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- February 6, 2026
Are you ready to make your daily commute into something that makes you just a little healthier? When you are doing something that makes you feel good, you’re naturally going to be in a better mood.
Here are a few ways you can make your daily commute a little better.
Focus on Your Body
Deep Breathing: Whether you’ve got the cruise control on or you’re idling in traffic, deep breathing exercises can help relax you. Shake off the stress of a hectic morning or a chaotic day on the job before you get home. Deep breathing improves focus, lowers blood pressure, and reduces cortisol.
Focus on posture: You might be inclined to slouch in the seat but focusing on the way you’re sitting can improve your breathing. Your spine stays supported, which helps eliminate head, neck, and back pain.
Fill the Time
Audiobooks: Listening to your favorite author can go a long way toward helping you escape the chaos of the commute. When you’re focused on a story or maybe your favorite funny podcast, you’re not stressing about the time you’re spending commuting.
Learn something new: Spend your time learning a new skill. It could be a new language, cooking techniques, or improving money management. Fuel your mind, and you will feel better in general.
Pack a commute bag: Pack healthy snacks, like nuts, dried fruit, or jerky. Always have plenty of water. This keeps you from stopping at a gas station or running through a drive-through to get something greasy and unhealthy.
Create a commuting playlist: If you’re naturally tense or anxious, it’s a good idea to create a playlist of calm music. Classical or even the sound of falling rain or ocean waves can bring down your anxiety. If you prefer to sing along and tap your fingers on the wheel, put together a playlist that will have you singing at the top of your lungs and expelling all that frustration.
Alternatives to Solo Driving
Buddy up: If you’re driving, consider carpooling. Spending time in the car with a buddy is a great way to talk things out and reduce your stress. You can talk about the latest game or your plans for the weekend. If you’re using public transportation, make friends with your traveling companions. Talking and sharing are therapeutic.
Get active: If it’s possible, consider walking or biking to work. The exercise is self-explanatory. If you are considering a bike commute, assess your route for safe bike friendly passages including bike lanes. While biking can prevent many health benefits, consider safety first and foremost. In 2023, there were 66 bicycle accidents in the city of Modesto alone. You’ll stay fit and healthy while burning off any stress built up from the workday.
Commuting is a fact of life for most people. It doesn’t have to be riddled with frustration about being stuck in a car. You can make it work for you by implementing a few changes.
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