How to overcome jet lag?
Having jet lag is a typical disorder of travelers; it occurs when the circadian rhythms that govern the [...]
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Having jet lag is a typical disorder of travelers; it occurs when the circadian rhythms that govern our sleep-wake status are altered. Usually, you feel and sense it the moment you cross different time zones when traveling by air.
The only silver lining we can give to jet lag is that having it means you are traveling, which we had to avoid during the pandemic.
Otherwise, unfortunately, it is not a very pleasant condition; in fact, it accompanies us to our destination sleepy and sleepy at various times of the day. No fear though, it is possible to get through it excellently and unscathed, of course, by finding the right strategy both at the start and at the destination. Let's find out together then how to overcome jet lag!
Techniques for overcoming jet lag
Overcoming jet lag is a real feat, but not a mission impossible. For this very reason, techniques have been invented to defeat it so that you can have a peaceful vacation or at least a good return without trauma.
Many people also document on YouTube how devastating the effects of jet lag are, proving that they are not superstitions or jokes.
What are the tricks and strategies we can use to overcome jet lag?
Prepare for the location and time zone where you will be flying
This may sound silly, yet it is not! That's because the effects of jet lag are less impactful for you if you adjust your day to your destination time a few days in advance.
It does not mean totally changing one's days, but simply trying to adapt: it is helpful to adjust circadian rhythms to the new time zone. It is also necessary, to control light exposure so as not to arrive unprepared.
The help of darkness
If you're about to get on a plane, you could do as the birds do-it really works! How? That's right, to be able to sleep on a plane, especially when the flight is at night and the destination is several hours ahead, you can wear an eye mask. The darkness you have created will then begin to produce melatonin that will regulate your sleep. So all you need to have is: a good mask, a pillow that can allow you to rest (which you will usually receive on the flight), and a good seat reservation!
Relaxation during the flight
To counteract the effects of jet lag, it is important to board the flight relaxed and especially rested according to the arrival time at the destination, adapting. You will find several bottles of melatonin or homeopathic herbs on the market, perfect for leading you to sleep eden and allowing you to relax. Do not expose yourself to sources of stress, perhaps by watching action movies, try to relax; doing so will defeat jet lag.
Caffeine yes, but without overdoing it
Coffee is to be avoided without question in the hours before departure and especially during the flight. But it could be (before landing if you were to arrive in the morning or afternoon) the right boost for your day. If you just can't get through a day without drinking a lot of coffee, try decaffeinated as well, it's not bad at all!
Do not exceed kcal
You will be super tempted on the plane to take something different to eat and that will be offered to you, but watch your nutrition! That's right, eating certain foods may lead you to stay awake for many hours.
It is important to provide the right energy intake to the body and eat for example: white meat, few carbohydrates and some fruit. If you are in the mood for dessert, try to choose something with red fruits, they will help you relax and overcome future jet lag. TFC's advice: is to drink plenty of water which will help you get rid of toxins accumulated from stress!
In conclusion: how to overcome jet lag?
Jet lag can be a real enemy, especially when taking a trip to the other side of the world, such as in Japan. It also often happens because people choose to make one or more stopovers, not opting for direct flights.
As we have seen, there are actually several ways to try to defeat it. It's all about organizing one's journey in detail and trying to skillfully adjust to the new schedule while respecting one's circadian rhythms! There are, moreover, also several relaxation techniques that could bring great improvements to one's body. These techniques can be easily learned by purchasing a course.
If you don't sleep because you have fear of flying: read our article! To stay up to date with news, discounts, on how to travel with points and awards, stay tuned to social media.
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