With vacations in full swing, you may be planning your travel and visits to see family and loved ones. If your plans include traveling to different time zones, you may be wondering how you're going to adjust your sleep schedule and what tips will help you with avoiding jet lag.
Jet lag is a common issue when it comes to planning vacations, but there are some simple jet lag tips to help you avoid feeling the negative effects during and after your getaway.
1. Stay hydrated
One of the best and easiest jet lag cures is to drink lots of water. Airplane cabin humidity is three-times less than the normal environment, so you're likely to get dehydrated quickly, particularly if you are taking several long flights to reach your destination.
2. Don't skip sunscreen
A little sun can feel pretty nice, especially if you're jet lagged enough to nod off. But soaking up that extra sun during the day can worsen sleep at night. Rather than slather yourself in aloe after a bad sunburn, take preventative steps to use high SPF sunblock and reapply regularly, no matter what time you're outside. You'll lower your chance of dehydration and even possible fevers and keep your schedule on track.
3. Use essential oils for relaxation
Calming aromas like lavender can slow down your heart rate and lower blood pressure, making it easier to relax and fall asleep. If you have young children, using these essential oils can aid in bedtime routines for infants and toddlers in particular. And even if you and your children are unable to avoid the effects of jet lag when you get home, using essential oils in your bedtime routine can be a major key to jet lag recovery.
4. Get lots of sunlight
Often time, we feel the effects of jet lag when our circadian rhythm is thrown off. Getting some sun early in the day can help adjust your circadian rhythm back to your time zone. Even if you're sleepy and want to crawl back in bed, making an effort to get some sunshine will dramatically improve your mood and your sleepiness. Ultimately, you and your body will be happy you found the light!
5. Take a hot bath before bedtime
Taking a bath can help ease sore muscles from travel and can also help you relax and unwind before you try to sleep. This is especially helpful if you're wondering how to get over jet lag when you get home. Unwinding from a long trip by car or plane in the bath or shower will help your body adjust to bedtime and get the sleep you desperately need.
6. Get some exercise
Quality sleep has a lot to do with your lifestyle and how active you are. If you're trying to get your body back to its natural rhythm, try doing a workout in the afternoon or yoga before bedtime. Staying active is always an important part of a healthy routine, so if you're used to being active or you want to start a better exercise routine, don't be afraid to get a head-start on your exercise goals before the new year!
While we can all get wrapped up in the joy of getting away, don't forget to give your body the rest it needs!
