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How to Get Over Jet Lag: Tips, Suggestions, and Treatments
Conquer Jet Lag Fast!
Table of Content
Acute jet lag is a near-universal experience for travellers. Jet lag is caused due to a temporary imbalance between the body clock and external environment, typically resulting from rapid travel across multiple time zones, combined with discomfort and exhaustion. Knowing how to overcome jet lag will make a world of difference when hopping around those different time zones.
Let us understand jet lag in depth and find the strategies, solutions, and treatments that will help you overcome it quickly. Let's get into it; read on!
What Is Jet Lag?
Circadian desynchrony — better known as jet lag — occurs when the light-dark cues are at odds with the local time of the destination. Even if you are in bed but not sleeping, this disruption is a problem, leading to symptoms like insomnia, sleepiness during the day, the inability to concentrate and potential digestive issues. Part of knowing how to get over jet lag is understanding what these symptoms are and how to counteract them.
Prepare Before You Travel
The only real way to get over jet lag is to start making changes before you even leave for your trip. Here are some tips for how to get over jet lag quickly before travelling:
1. Adjust Your Sleep Schedule
Slowly adjust to your destination's time zone by changing your sleep pattern for a couple of days before the journey. If you are travelling east, go to bed and rise early. If you are travelling west, do the reverse. This helps your body get used to the new time zone and is an effective strategy for getting over jet lag.
2. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration will aggravate jet lag symptoms. In the days before your flight, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, as both can disrupt sleep and cause dehydration.
3. Get Plenty of Rest
Make sure you sleep well and take well-being services before you leave. Having a good night's sleep can help your body adjust better to the time change and after the journey. Getting enough rest is crucial to get over jet lag quickly.
4. Prepare Well for your Travel
It is essential to plan your trips very carefully because even the slightest discomfort can lead to greater stress and trigger your jetlag even more. For example, planning your luggage shipping services accurately can confirm safety and getting the best travel insurance plan, and you will rest assured—hence, no stress and no jet lag!
During the Flight
How you handle your flight experience and deal with airport anxiety plays the most vital role in how to get over jet lag. Here are some in-flight tips:
1. Adjust Your Watch
As soon as you board the plane, adjust your watch to the time zone of your destination. It may not be much, but at least mentally, it can help you see things in terms of the new time zone. This helps you manage jet lag by aligning your mindset with the local time of your destination.
2. Stay Active
Walk along the aisles and stretch lightly to get the blood going and reduce stiffness. Being active will make you more alert and reduce the risk of getting a DVT. Staying active is another method for getting over jet lag.
3. Sleep Strategically
If you plan on sleeping on the flight, sleep when it is nighttime in your arrival city. For better sleep, wear earplugs, an eye mask, and a neck pillow.
Upon Arrival
Break your first actions in order to get over jet lag fast. Here are some tips to make the transition easier on your body:
1. Spend Time in Daylight
Natural light exposure will regulate your internal clock. When you arrive in the new time zone, get out in daylight. Daylight exposure is key to overcoming jet lag.
2. Remain Awake Until Local Bedtime
Do not be tempted to take a nap as much as you feel tired when you arrive. If you can stay up until local bedtime, you may be able to reset your internal clock that much faster.
3. Eat Meals at Local Times
Eating meals according to the schedule of your destination will help your body reset to the local time. Healthy, light meals will keep your body happy and energised. Eating at local times is important for overcoming jet lag.
Natural Remedies for Jet Lag
Why not try one of these natural remedies to kick jet lag to the curb:
1.Melatonin
Melatonin — naturally released from the pineal gland into the blood at night — is a hormone that influences sleep onset and sleep-wake cycles. Use melatonin supplements to reset your body clock and restore your sleep cycle. Talk to your doctor before using melatonin to find out how much you should take and when. Melatonin can be an effective remedy for how to get over jet lag.
2. Herbal Teas
Some herbal teas (like chamomile, valerian root, and lavender) can help you relax and sleep better. Drink a cup of herbal tea before going to bed to help you relax and fall asleep more easily.
3. Essential Oils
Use lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus essential oils to lower tension and reduce stress. Put a few drops in a diffuser or on your pillow before bed to help you relax and unwind. Essential oils can be a natural way to overcome jet lag.
Treatments for Severe Jet Lag
Other treatments may also be required to treat severe jet lag:
1. Light Therapy
Light therapy involves exposing yourself to bright light to help reset your inner clock. This treatment is particularly good for jet lag. You can also use light therapy boxes at home or seek treatment from a healthcare provider. Light therapy can be a significant aid for how to get over jet lag.
2. Sleep Aids
For severe jet lag with persistent symptoms, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter or prescription sleep aids. Before you use any sleep aids, you should always talk to a healthcare professional to make sure they are safe for you!
Tips to Sleep Well
Following proper sleep hygiene practices is very important for learning how to overcome jet lag and promoting good sleep for life:
1. Develop a Proper Sleeping Environment
Create a comfortable place to sleep. Use blackout curtains to block out light, keep the room cool, and reduce noise.
2. Stick to a Routine
Establish regular sleep hours, including weekends. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Consistency is key to overcoming jet lag.
3. Avoid Stimulants
Try to avoid consuming caffeine and nicotine, especially close to bedtime. These stimulants can impede your ability to fall asleep.
Listening to Your Body
Listening to your body is the most important yet often the simplest technique for overcoming jet lag. Jet lag affects everyone differently, and it can take a while before your body is totally in sync. Give yourself patience and grace to rest and recuperate. Listening to your body is crucial for overcoming jet lag.
As you prepare for your upcoming travels, use these strategies and treatments for no jet lag and get the most out of your next adventure. By preparing in advance, managing your flight well, and taking proactive steps upon arrival, you can overcome jet lag faster and more comfortably. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is jet lag?
Jet lag is when your internal body clock is not in time with the local time where you are, leading to disrupted sleep and tiredness.
How do you cure jet lag fast?
Prepare your body for the new schedule before you travel. Stay hydrated, try to stay awake, and move around until local bedtime. Avoid napping immediately upon arrival.
Is jet lag treatable with natural remedies?
Yes, jet lag can be treated with natural remedies such as melatonin supplements, herbal teas, and essential oils. These are known to reduce anxiety and aid sleep.
What can I do on this flight so I am not extremely jet lagged?
Set your watch to the time zone of your destination, avoid sedatives, exercise when you can, and sleep according to your destination's bedtime.
When to consider additional jet lag treatments?
When jet lag lasts for longer than expected or normal time, consider treatments like light therapy or sleeping pills. Talk to a healthcare provider for advice on how to overcome it.