5 Tips for Handling Jet Lag Like a Pro
Road warriors, we know jet lag comes with the territory, but it doesn’t have to bog you down. Here are our 5 tips for coping with jet lag symptoms to have you adjusted in no time.
1. Get started before takeoff
One way to ensure you’re on your A-game when you land is adapting to your new schedule before you fly. So if you’re flying somewhere that’s seven hours ahead, start going to bed 30 minutes later than the previous day for a few days before takeoff.
Want to take it a step further? Start eating meals when you’d be eating them in the new time zone. Breakfast for dinner? Why not.
2. Get your water on
Did you know that jet lag disorder is partly due to dehydration? Being on a plane certainly doesn’t help the situation. Luckily the fix is easy. Just make sure you’re drinking water regularly before, during and after your flight.
3. Adapt on the go
Try to sleep on the plane if it’s nighttime where you’re going. Light bothering you? Use an eye mask and ear plugs to block out any chatter. If you’re one of those people who has trouble falling asleep during flights, no need to force it, just try to relax and get as much rest as possible.
If it’s going to be daytime where you’re travelling to, then try to stay awake – watch movies, read a book or catch up on emails to help fend off sleep.
4. Arrive early
If you have important events or meetings to attend during your trip, arriving early to your destination will give your mind and body time to adjust to the new time zone. If you have a morning meeting, opt for a flight the night before so you can settle in, get a full night of sleep and show up prepared and well-rested. Avoid red eye flights on the way to your destination, as it’s likely you won’t get much (or any!) sleep – leaving no time for your body to adjust.
5. Keep your head as clear as the skies
As tempting as it may be to have an alcoholic beverage, take caffeine or sleeping pills before a flight, don’t do it. Alcohol at high altitudes will increase tiredness and dehydration, caffeine will keep you awake and buzzing with energy, prolonging jet lag symptoms and sleeping pills will make you feel groggy and disoriented when you land. Does any of that sound pleasant to you? We think not.
The bigger the time difference, the harder it will be for your mind and body to adjust. With jet lag disorder the struggle can be REAL. Hopefully these tips give you a leg up on your next business trip so that you don’t let it get the best of you.
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