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Jet lag is a series of symptoms that occur when a person's body clock gets disturbed due to frequent flying. The body's natural balance is hampered leading to sleep disorders, fatigue and other travel-related disorders. This is common if you travel over several time zones for example, if you are travelling from India to USA (east-west), there is a 10-hour time difference that your body needs to get adjusted to. India to Australia (west-east), on the other hand, has a 5-hour distance and is harder to adjust since the day is shorter. Whichever way you are headed to, follow these simple tips to beat jet lag and stay fit:
Change your sleep routine before departure
It is ideal to switch your sleeping patterns to adjust to your destination's local time. If you are heading east, snooze an hour early and if you are heading west, an hour late. This again, should be scheduled a few days before you actually leave.
Avoid sleeping on arrival
Refuse your body's urge to give in to sleeping. On arrival, divert your body's transition to the local time. You could go for a jog, exercise or indulge in local activities to keep your mind distracted.
Put a kibosh on binging
Do not overindulge on food especially if you are on a flight. Eat light and healthy. Doing the opposite may leave you feeling queasy and uncomfortable throughout the entire journey.
Stay hydrated
It is essential that you drink plenty of water before and after your flight to counteract dehydration. Keep alcohol and coffee at bay as it may disrupt sleep patterns and induce dehydration.
Nap between flights
Catch a few winks on your flight. It will keep you lively on the ground. You can use noise-cancellation headphones for an undisturbed and peaceful nap.
On popping pills
Although, not a recommended solution to alter sleeping patterns, sleeping drugs prescribed by a medical practitioner can bring quick relief from jet lag. These drugs work by boosting hormone secretion at night and decreasing it at daytime. However, do remember, seek professional help before you resort to any kind of drug induced sleep.
Au revoir, wild parties
Avoid late night parties before your journey. Unless you raise your glasses to ginger-ale juices, it is a good idea to skip parties. A fresh state of mind is more effective to tackle jet lag issues than a sleep-deprived state.
Grab your pillow
During travel, a good pillow can help you sleep without excruciating neck pains. Opt for a travel pillow with feathers or soft foam. This definitely is the next best alternative to a comfortable bed!
Exercise before travel
Elaborate yoga moves or intense workout is not a necessity, although it would be a bonus if you are a fitness lover. Try to do simple exercises like walking, jogging, skipping or even climbing up and down the stairs. It keeps you active and is ideal to overcome jet lag.
So, the next time you plan to travel overseas you can easily minimize your discomfort. However, if you are a frequent flier, it is always advisable to consult a physician or a specialist for professional guidance to combat jet lag symptoms.
