Time difference: 6 tips for dealing with Jet Lag

When you fly across time zones, your body needs time to adjust. Otherwise known as jet lag, it is a combination of symptoms that can include insomnia, anxiety and a general sense of fatigue. Everyone experiences jet lag differently and it can be more intense at some times than others. However, by taking preventive measures before the trip and combining several activities during the flight, it is possible to minimize the effects of jet lag. Here are 6 tips for dealing with jet lag when traveling across time zones.

 

1. Stay awake for the first half of the flight 😀

When you fly east, you fly with the rotation of the earth. This means you will gain an extra hour of daylight during the flight and start your trip with an hour of time difference.

On the other hand, if you are flying west, you will be flying against the earth's rotation and will lose one hour of daylight during the flight and begin your trip two hours behind.

If you want to minimize the effects of jet lag while traveling east, it is important to stay awake during the first half of the flight. This means that you should get as little sleep as possible during the first part of your trip. Since you have an extra hour to work, you can try to combat fatigue by drinking caffeinated drinks and eating snacks.

 

2. Exercise as soon as you get on the plane 🧘

The best time to exercise on a plane is during the first half of the flight. This will help you stay awake and alert throughout the trip, as well as improve your chances of falling asleep as soon as you board the plane. Exercise is a great way to change your body's rhythm and can be a useful tool to help you overcome jet lag.

Best of all, you don't have to go to the gym to exercise: stretching, walking and doing some simple yoga poses are all good ways to pass the time. If you're sitting in an aisle seat, it's also a good idea to get up and move every couple of hours. This will get the blood flowing and minimize feelings of stiffness and cramping.

 

3. Watch your diet and hydration 🚰

One of the many challenges of travel is finding healthy foods. However, with jet lag, it is especially important to eat healthy and avoid foods high in fat and sugar.

The more balanced your diet, the better you will feel and the more energy you will have. On top of that, you'll need to stay hydrated. Fortunately, most airplanes offer free water, so it's easy to keep your hydration levels up. Drinking glasses of water before and during the flight will help minimize the effects of jet lag.

4. Set an alarm and stick to your bedtime ritual ⏰

You will arrive at your destination tired, but it is important to try to sleep as soon as you can. This will help your body adjust to the new time zone and minimize the effects of jet lag.

You can use an alarm clock to remind you when it is time to go to bed. You can set two alarms: one to mark the time you want to go to bed and the other to mark the time you want to wake up.

You can also try to imagine yourself sleeping in the time zone of your destination. It is important to follow your usual bedtime rituals. For example, you can wash your face, brush your teeth and try to read for a few minutes in a dimly lit room. This will help you get ready for sleep as quickly as possible.

 

5. Bring a sleep mask and earplugs 💤

If you're nervous about sleeping on the plane, it may be helpful to bring along some extra sleep aids. A sleep mask can help eliminate light that can disrupt sleep. Earplugs can be helpful in blocking out sound and preventing you from hearing your neighbor going to the bathroom in the middle of the night.

 

6. Take a nap during the day 😴

If you feel particularly tired at any time of the day, don't hesitate to take a nap. This will help your body adjust to the new time zone more quickly and can be a great way to pass the time during a long trip.

A nap can also help reduce fatigue and improve concentration, making it easier for you to focus during the day. If you are in an unfamiliar environment, it can be helpful to take a nap in a quiet, dark room. It is a good idea to set an alarm to wake you up before you enter the last phase of sleep, called REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.

 

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