Tips to Avoid Jet Lag
It is fair to say that nobody likes having jet lag. The feeling of being drowsy and irritable in the middle of the day is not what you want especially during your vacation. Before you set off flying around the world here are a few tips to help you avoid jet lag.
#1. Sunglasses
When traveling east it is best to wear your sunglasses. There are several reasons this remedy helps avoid jet lag but to put it simply, sunglasses aid in avoiding light which will delay your body clock rather than advance it. The recommended advice is to wear your sunglasses during the flight and when you reach your destination until 11 am. This will aid you in easing your body clock into the new time zone. Of course, if you are traveling west don’t wear sunglasses and try to soak up as much sun as possible.
#2. Adjust your sleep schedule a day or two before traveling to your destination.
By factoring that 2-3 hour difference in your sleep schedule you can effectively prepare your body before the vacation has even started. A great recommendation is to pair this trick with our advice on sunglasses. Together this should make an effective one-two punch.
#3. Try to plan your flights to arrive during daylight
It is difficult to schedule all of your future flights using this logic but when you can it will help. It is easier for your body to adjust its sleep patterns to a longer day than adjusting for a shorter day.
#4. On the plane set your watch to the time of your destination in order to get yourself psychologically adjusted.
If you have ever tried to not stare at a clock in order to let time pass by but accidently end up seeing the time this tip might make sense. Just from knowing that you have more time (doing whatever task you deem unpleasant) generates mental fatigue and can psychologically throw you off. By adjusting your clock ahead of time you can avoid this psychological stress before you arrive on your vacation.
#5. Stay Hydrated
Finally, as you are flying the plane is continually circulating air. This air is usually fairly dry and tends to leave the majority of people (some more than others) a little dehydrated. Drink plenty of water the day before and during your flight in order to combat this sensation. Being dehydrated will cause you to feel worse than you might already especially coupled with jet lag. The best option is to drink water and if you can get in some exercise either before or after your flight.
