Jet lag is defined as a temporary sleep disorder due to traveling across multiple time zones. If you’ve been hit by the travel bug, then this article is just for you! The CGS team wants you to be well prepared when gearing up to travel and visit your favorite destinations. Usually, traveling comes with a change in time zone and a long stint in a plane or car. While some people can adapt quickly to the change, it may take a little longer for others to get used to it. The CGS Team is sharing 4 ways to help you beat jet lag, so you can enjoy your travels at 100%.
Get Rest
Rest is one of the most important things the body needs when flying. When you’re traveling, your body endures a lot of stress. Stress from the beginning (packing and planning), the middle (checking your luggage in and praying it hasn’t gotten lost), and the end (rushing to make your flight on time and actually getting to your destination).
Your body doesn’t seem to really relax until it’s reached your final destination, and by then jet lag has already kicked in. Be sure before you board your flight that you’ve gotten enough rest, and even try resting on your flight so upon arrival you’re as ready to go as you can be.
Take Vitamins
Some vitamins are great with helping people deal with jet lag. Vitamins B12 help boost energy levels, concentration, and mood. You can take a shot of the vitamin or consume it as a pill. Whatever you choose, both will give you the same result. Melatonin is another supplement that helps with jet lag.
The supplement helps regulates the body’s sleep-wake cycle. Levels rise after dark, peak overnight, and then fall in the morning. In some studies, taking melatonin has been shown to help fight jet lag. Take either of these vitamins after your flight.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil can be used for many things. One of its many functions is that it helps with sleep enhancement. The oil acts as a mild sedative, promoting deep sleep and leaving the people who take it feeling more refreshed the next day. Simply shake a few drops on your flight pillow and the lovely aroma immediately relaxes you. If your skin is sensitive to oils, place a few drops on your wrist, and around your neck to keep you calm.
Sleep Medication
Jet lag really sets in when you aren’t familiar with the specific time zone. If you begin prepping your body for the time zone in advance, you more than likely won’t be bothered by the jet lag. Short-acting sleep induced medicines such as Sonata or Ambien can be helpful when traveling west to east especially on transatlantic flights. When flying in the opposite direction, longer-lasting pills such as Lunesta or Ambien CR tend to work better. Consult with your primary care physician when looking into medication to help with jet lag.
Usually jet setters experience jet lag after flying to a different time zone. Try practicing our 4 simple tips and let us know how they work for you. What tips can you share with the community that can help when experiencing jet lag? Like us on our Facebook page, and follow us on IG and Twitter @citygirlsavings. Don’t let jet lag get in the way of you living life and seeing new places!
