| One of the worst parts of air travel is handling jet | | | | After take off, set your watch to the destination |
| lag. Jet lag is basically your body's inability to adjust to | | | | time. The rule of thumb is to sleep if it's bed time at |
| the destination's time as it passes through multiple | | | | your destination and stay awake (or just take a small |
| time zones. For the inexperienced traveler (and some | | | | nap) if not. If you need to sleep consider taking a |
| experienced ones) it can put a cramp in your | | | | light sleep aid and if you're worried about missing the |
| business or holiday plans especially if your trip is only | | | | meal service then just let the cabin crew know to |
| a few days. | | | | wake you. Again, avoid consuming alcohol. It may |
| The main symptoms of jet lag are fatigue and | | | | help you sleep but in the long run it will make jet lag |
| tiredness. This can be accompanied by headaches, | | | | worse. If you feel like a drink then just have one and |
| dizziness, muscle soreness, a feeling of sickness and | | | | drink extra water to keep hydrated. If you're awake, |
| odd eating patterns. Being tired while on your holiday, | | | | get out of your seat and do some simple stretches |
| especially if you're planning on doing a lot of | | | | to reduce muscle tension. |
| sightseeing or physical activity can make if difficult to | | | | Some travelers swear by Melatonin pills to prevent |
| have an enjoyable time. | | | | jet lag. Tests show that your body's clock is |
| To prevent jet lag you have to start before your | | | | influenced by the hormone Melatonin. It is secreted |
| trip. Ensure you are relaxed and stress free before | | | | when your body is exposed to a lack of light so |
| you leave for the airport. Don't drink caffeinated | | | | when it's dark it's like a natural sleeping pill. You can |
| drinks and while alcohol may relax you it also | | | | force this hormone by taking Melatonin pills which can |
| dehydrates which can contribute to jet lag. Also | | | | be purchased over the counter at most drug stores. |
| consider doing some light exercise such as yoga or | | | | Once you arrive at your destination adjust to the |
| running but nothing that will make your muscles sore. | | | | time as soon as possible. If you are tired in the |
| Exercising aids your body's sleep patterns. | | | | middle of the day don't crash but take a small nap |
| Once on your flight, try to make yourself as | | | | and then get to bed early. Sleeping during the middle |
| comfortable as possible. Consider accessories that will | | | | of the day and staying awake at night will only |
| help you such as neck pillows and eye masks. Take | | | | prolong jet lag. |
| off your shoes and get pillows and blankets before | | | | If you use these preventative tips you will arrive at |
| the plane takes off. Since dehydration contributes to | | | | your destination rested with minimal jet lag and ready |
| jet lag, bring a large bottle of water. Drink lots of | | | | to enjoy your trip. |
| water even if you don't feel thirsty. | | | | |