Vacations are always a great time for you and your family, especially overseas trips. But to people who have a jet lag problem on the plane, it sounds a little bit hard to start the journey. Everyone experience jag lag differently, symptoms of it are sleepiness all day, insomnia at night, and in the worse case, you will feel malaise and irritability. Understanding how your body works and knowing some tips below are a great way to avoid jet lag for you and your family.
Why jet lag occurs
Basically, when you travel somewhere that the external environment is different from your hometown, jet lag can occur. Because our body is programmed to a routine throughout 24 hours, like waking up, eating and sleeping. This is known as circadian rhythms, and when we fly to the far-away country, different time zone, weather can play havoc with our body. However, there is an excellent website that makes a jet lag plan for you.
Choose a clever schedule
Depending on the length of the flight, you should choose a flight that lands at the destination in the evening or afternoon. This is good for your body to reset your clock and avoid jet lag. It’s better if you sleep on a plane and choose transition as seamless as possible. The more rest your body gets, the less stress of jet lag you have to deal. Here are some tips for you to choose a proper and cheap flight.
Restrict caffeine drinks
If you think that coffee can make you feel comfortable, you are wrong, unfortunately. Caffeine-heavy drinks such as cola, coffee, and energy beverages will affect your ability to sleep and increase jet lag time. Instead of, drinking lots of water is a great way to hydrate your body and prevent the effect of jet lag. Warm water with mint or herbal tea is best for your mind to sleep easier.
Be careful with sleeping pills
If you want to try a sleeping pill for long-haul flights, it may not be a good idea. Because you may not know the exact dosage for your body, you can be fuzzy and tired when you land. If you are hard to sleep, try to relax, listen to music instead of having a sleeping pill. Small tip for you to choose a seat on the plane is that opting for a window seat. You can lean against it and not be woken by other passengers who need to go out.
Keep on moving to avoid jet lag
After landing, if you don’t feel well, staying on the bed is not a good idea, except in case you are too fuzzy. Otherwise, try to exercise a little bit to keep the blood flowing. Circulation is a crucial point to focus, moving to make your blood go to the brain. Moreover, spend time in the sunlight as much as you can, the exercise and sunshine will give you the energy to boost.
Adjust your ”clock”
Several hours before landing, set your watch to the time zone of your destination. One thing to remember that not to do this too early, so that you won’t miss your flight.
Another clock you should change is your internal clock. Some days before departure, adjust your sleeping and eating times suitable to those at your destination to avoid jet lag later. Then your body won’t shock when there is an unexpected change.
