Jet lag is the king of all travel ailments, and anyone who has ever suffered its effects will agree that it is less than agreeable. When you add to it the myriad of other travel related issues that can arise, cancelled or delayed flights, lost luggage, and lengthy immigration check to name a few, it can become a veritable nightmare. Never fear, however, as we are on-hand with a few top tips and hints that could help you circumvent the worst of the effects (if not all of them). Here’s how you can lift that dreaded fog and make the most of your vacation from day one!
Adjust your sleep patterns before you travel
You can get ahead of jet lag by naturally adjusting your sleeping pattern bit by bit for a few days before you go on vacation. If you’re heading eastwards from your home then you should go to bed a few hours earlier than usual for three or four days before you head off. If you are going west, you should stay up a few hours later each night. This will be most efficient and useful if you are staying longer than two days in your vacation destination.
Use nature’s remedies
Once you arrive at your destination you could make use of a holistic therapy items like lavender oil, pouches or sprays to relieve the effects of jet lag. Lavender is a natural sleep aid which can help you to get a more restful sleep while on vacation. Pop some on or under your pillow when you arrive!
Expose yourself to the sun
The sun is your best bet for lessening the effects of jet lag if you can’t avoid it all-together. When flying west to east it is very common to feel drowsy during the day, so your best bet is to, first of all, get a good night’s sleep when you first arrive, and, secondly, embrace the sun. Waking up bright and early and getting in a nice walk on the beach will help to blow away the cobwebs. If the sun is not up yet then turn on a bright lamp. If you’re flying east to west you should rely on the late afternoon sun to tell your body it’s time to wind down – just be sure to stay awake to your usual bedtime.
Melatonin
Melatonin is produced inside your body and helps to balance your natural sleep cycle, but it can be bought in supplement form and has been proven to help combat the effects of jet lag when taken correctly. Experts suggest taking it after dark when you first arrive at your destination and then for a few days after to help your body reset, but do be sure to talk to your doctor first. If taken incorrectly it can mess with your body clock and clash with other medications you may be taking.
Doc’s Recommendations
If all else fails you, you can turn to mediation to help your body get over the worst of the hump. Sleeping pills, whether prescribed by the doctor or bought over the counter, should be taken with care, however, so be sure to consult your doctor before you do anything.