Traveling around the world is amazing. It opens you up to entirely new cultures, people and experiences. It enriches your life and gives you memories that last a lifetime. But one of the worst parts of travel is the jet lag.
What is Jet Lag?
Jet lag is a temporary sleep disorder that occurs in people who cross two or more time zones in a short span of time.
Suddenly, your body’s internal clock is confused. You find that you can’t sleep at night and during the day, you can’t keep yourself awake. Now you’ve got to get up for work on Monday and you’re kicking yourself for picking that perfect dream vacation that was an eight-hour flight away.
Don’t worry, we’ve got a few tips that will tell you how to get rid of jet lag after a holiday.
1) Sleep During the Flight
Make use of your long flight to sleep. If possible, pick a window seat at the front of the plane; you won’t have to get up often; they provide a place for you to lean on; and it is less likely to get bumpy. Stretch your legs out and try laying in a sort of plan position, to emulate your normal sleeping position. Ear plugs and eye masks can also be incredibly useful.
2) Don’t Sleep During the Flight
Contrary to the previous point, there are times when sleeping during the flight isn’t the best idea. Even if you boarded the plane at night, if you’re expected to arrive at 10 in the night at your destination, don’t spend the entirety of your flight sleeping. Instead, take a nap before leaving for the airport. Staying awake during the flight will help you fall asleep as soon as you get home, and therefore, wake up well-rested and refreshed in the morning.
3) Set Your Watch
It’s a good idea to set your watch to the time zone you will be arriving at as soon as the flight takes off. This will help influence your psychology into switching over to the new schedule, and help you in beating jet leg after returning home.
4) Avoid Caffeinated Beverages
Drinks such as coffee, fizzy drinks, and energy drinks are best avoided before, during, and after a long flight. Such beverages tend to mess with your body’s natural sleep cycle. Instead, opt for water and make sure to drink lots of it. Staying hydrated is key in maintaining a healthy body and sleeping schedule.
5) Sunlight Is Your Friend
If you’ve arrived during the day, make sure to not shut yourself indoors. Naturally, you’ll feel tired and just want to lay in bed, but resist the urge. Even if you weren’t intending on sleeping, a dark and quiet room will make you feel sleepy. Be active and get a bit of exercise. Getting yourself outside is important, as sunlight is a vital stimulant in letting your internal clock know that it’s not time to sleep yet.
