Flying brings our world closer together. It helps people visit family members in other states, continents and countries. Many destinations can be reached in less than a day.
A common problem that many frequent flyers experience is jet lag. This is a temporary sleep disorder, caused by traveling across multiple time zones. Some common symptoms include tiredness, fatigue, stomach problems, memory and concentration issues and mood changes.
Jet lag is a temporary condition. It's an inconvenience for many travelers. It can make vacations a lot less enjoyable. There are solutions, however. You can find out more at Elite Rest and other websites about products that can help you get more restful sleep and get you back into your normal patterns of rest.
Here are a few ways that can help minimize jet lag:
1. Rest before you travel.
A good way to prepare for the possible jetlag is by getting a good night's rest the day before you fly. Often times, people are so excited or anxious about traveling that they forget to get a good night's sleep. They wake up the next morning feeling tired and cranky, which can make travel uncomfortable. Getting a good night's sleep helps your body prepare for your travels and adjust appropriately to time zone changes.
2. Stay away from caffeine or alcohol.
Although it may be tempting, do your best to avoid alcohol or caffeine before you fly. Alcohol can increase dehydration and tiredness. Caffeine is a stimulant that can affect your body's ability to sleep. Both of these items can increase your jet lag recovery time. You're better off consuming water. It keeps you hydrated and helps to offset the effects of jet lag.
3. Get some exercise.
Regular exercise is another great way to reduce the effects of jet lag. It keeps blood flowing and keeps you mentally alert. Making time for exercise before you travel and even doing a few crunches or stretches while you're waiting for your plane to board can work wonders. Just make sure not to overdo it, as sore muscles or aches and pains can make sometimes make jet lag symptoms worse.
4. Avoid sleeping pills.
Some travelers rely on sleeping pills to get them through their flight, especially on international trips. Unfortunately, they can do more harm than good. They can leave you unfocused and do nothing to reduce jet lag. Instead, you may want to try a nice herbal tea to help you relax if you need some rest during a long flight.
5. Adjust your schedule.
If you're used to a tight schedule, you may want to relax your commitments a bit before you travel. This helps you mentally adjust for time zone changes. If you're used to eating at certain times of the day, for example, try switching things up for a bit. Stress is a major reason why people have a hard time getting over jet lag. Reduce your commitments, and put things off that don't have to be done right away until after you return. Allow yourself some flexibility and freedom so that you can fully relax and enjoy your trip.
These are just some simple ways that you can minimize jet lag. For some people, this is never an issue. Others can take days or weeks to fully recover. Plan appropriately, and reduce or eliminate anything that could keep you up at night. Don't let jet lag stop you from truly making the most out of your next vacation.
