Crossing several time zones is sometimes exhausting, especially when traveling east. It is indeed more difficult to shorten the day than to lengthen it a little. How to prepare to adopt a new rhythm of life?
Here are five tips to combat jet lag.
1. Shift your meal and sleep times
To fight against jet lag, adapt to the time zone of your destination a few days before your departure.
- So, go ahead or delay your meals gradually and the time you go to set your biological clock on the schedule of your destination.
- The bigger the gap, the sooner you have to start this routine.
2. Sleep well before flying
Avoid sleeping late the day before you leave. According to Transport Canada, it is wrong to believe that you will sleep better once you reach your destination if you are really tired. In truth, you are only likely to accentuate the effects of jet lag.
- So be sure to rest before your trip. Likewise, if you travel at night, try to sleep during the flight.
- Avoid caffeine and get earplugs and an eye mask.
3. Hydrate yourself
A simple way to fight jet lag is to get hydrated before, during and after the flight.
- Transport Canada recommends drinking plenty of water as dehydration can cause headaches, which increases the effects of jet lag.
- Water is better than coffee, juice or soft drinks. Also avoid alcohol because it helps with dehydration.
4. Eat light on the plane
- It is advisable to eat light on the plane, especially to prevent motion sickness, and avoid salty dishes.
- In addition, meals during the flight are served according to the time zone of your place of departure.
- Thus, if you have shifted your meal times according to your destination, a hearty meal on the plane will spoil your efforts.
5. Move during the flight
Staying still for long hours is particularly painful.
- To promote blood circulation and reduce the effects of jet lag, get up from time to time and stretch.
- Even when sitting, move your legs and feet regularly. Enjoy stops to stretch your legs.
Napping to the rescue!
If, despite these tips, jetlag is so severe that you can make your days hard, you can take a nap between two activities. However, avoid sleeping too long: a nap of twenty minutes will restore energy for the day without spoiling your night’s sleep. You will then be able to fully enjoy your trip!
