Anyone who has flown long distances knows how the body goes into chaos from the change in time zones. The effects of this disruption to your circadian rhythm vary, but all are known as “jet lag.” This post-flight syndrome lasts anywhere from one to several days, but there are a few tricks that can help ease the discomfort.
Shift Your Sleep Schedule
At least two to three days before your trip, start adjusting your routine to match your destination’s time zone. If you’re flying east, start going to bed and waking up earlier. If you’re flying west, allow yourself to stay up later and sleep in. In this case, look for some entertaining shows or play games at the National casino New Zealand as long as you want. This adjustment will make the transition much less stressful for your body.
Bring a Pillow, Mask, and Earplugs on the Plane
Even if you can’t sleep, you’ll be able to rest comfortably without the disturbance of children’s cartoons next to you, crying babies behind you, or the snoring of an older passenger nearby. The more rested your body is, the fewer issues jet lag will cause.
Stay Hydrated
No water, no wellness. The restriction on carrying liquids through security checkpoints often leaves travelers without enough water, leading to dehydration. You can solve this by purchasing a bottle in the departure area, ordering tea at a café, or using a drinking fountain. If you’re traveling with children, you might even get your own drink through security. On the plane, ask for as much water as you need. The dry air on the plane increases the body’s need for hydration, so be sure to drink plenty.
Stock Up on Probiotics
One of the most unpleasant jet lag symptoms is digestive issues. This happens due to disrupted meal times, dehydration, and the introduction of unfamiliar foods into your diet. To avoid this, follow these tips:
- Add quality probiotics or digestive enzymes to your meals.
- Eat in small, frequent portions.
- Avoid alcohol, spicy, fatty, and overly acidic foods at first.
- Stick to your usual diet as much as possible.
Live by the New Time Zone Immediately
After you arrive, try not to give in to the temptation of spending the day in bed, even if you’re exhausted. Staying active will help your body recover more quickly — moving will help with swelling, stiffness, and other consequences of sitting for hours. At a resort, go for a swim; in the city, take a walk. However, if fatigue becomes unbearable, take a short nap — 30 to 60 minutes max — so your body can start adjusting to the new time zone. The sooner you start living, sleeping, and eating by the local clock, the faster you’ll overcome jet lag.
Don’t Skip the Tea and Coffee
Yes, really. Many people recommend avoiding caffeine, but that advice doesn’t always apply. If you need to stay awake after a sleepless night on the plane, caffeine can help you function without feeling like a zombie. Before your flight, drinking coffee is a good idea if you’re flying west during the day and know you won’t sleep on the plane. It will give you the energy and mood boost you need to handle luggage, children, or both!
Keep Melatonin in Your First Aid Kit
Once you arrive, take one melatonin pill in the evening to enjoy a good night’s sleep. Melatonin isn’t a sleeping pill but a natural hormone that your body produces. Sometimes it doesn’t kick in right away, leading to insomnia. Taking a small dose can help regulate your sleep pattern.
Give Yourself a Couple of Days to Adjust
No matter what you do, the first two days will likely be challenging. So, try not to schedule any important meetings or tasks right after your trip. Take these two days for rest and recovery.