Let’s talk about the one of the ugliest words in the English dictionary— JETLAG.
I have been traveling internationally for the last 14 years. Yes, I have experienced jetlag before but never like this. In total it took me 88 hours round-trip from Miami to New Zealand. That is literally two weeks and a day working full-time. I was able to recover quickly while in New Zealand because of the excitement of being in a new country.
However, come home has been torturous. The jetlag would come from left field and take me out.
Below are some of the things I’ve learned on how to overcome my jetlag:
1. Take a couple of days off from work. This will help you get back to your normal routine and allow you to rest
2. If your body/mind is craving sleep during the day, resist! Sleeping during the day will throw your body out of balance
3. Exercise the body by either yoga or walking. Moving around will help the body to relax and prepare itself for sleep.
4. Take a hot bath before bedtime. A bath can ease sore muscles from travel and help you relax and wind down. The drop in your body temperature when you get out of a bath may also make you sleepy.
5. Stay hydrated. Drink water before, during, and after your flight to counteract dehydration. Avoid alcohol or caffeine a few hours before you plan to sleep. Alcohol and caffeine can disrupt sleep and may cause dehydration.
6. Turn off your cell phone and/alarm before going to bed. The fewer interruptions during your sleep will help you overcome the jetlag