03/28/2024
Jet Lag Hacks
Jet lag is a phenomenon experenced by travellers who cross multiple time zones causing fatigue, headache and irritability. This sleep deprivation can have a big impact on health and wellbeing. It can put a damper on even the most exciting travel experiences.
Here are some quick tips for easing jet lag:
✈️ Adjust your sleep pattern: Gradually adjusting your sleep schedule before a long-distance trip can help you reduce the severity of jet lag symptoms. This involves going to bed and waking up slightly earlier or later each day, depending on your destination's time zone. This may help your body acclimate more smoothly.
✈️ Bright light exposure: Exposure to natural light is a key factor in regulating the body's internal clock. Spending time outdoors during daylight hours upon arrival can help synchronize your circadian rhythm with the local time zone, reducing the duration of jet lag. Artificial light therapy, which mimics sunlight, can be used for a specific amount of time when you are meant to be awake. It can be used in advance of travel if you are adjusting your sleep pattern to waking earlier in the day.
✈️ Take a cold shower: If you are arriving early in the day and need to stay awake, hopping into a cold shower increases your circulation and provides a quick energy boost. Exposure to cold is known to activate the sympathetic nervous system and increase blood levels of beta-endorphin and noradrenaline, which may have an anti-depressant effect for some people.
✈️ Have a warm bath: To fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality, take a warm bath or shower in the evening. Immersing your body in warm water aids your temperature regulation, soothes muscle aches, and washes away the germs from your journey.
These tips may help you minimize the effects of sleep deprivation and make the most of your travels. For a deeper dive on this subject, book a pre-travel consultation to review the best strategies for you to manage jet lag on your next trip.
