What do you think of when you think about the perfect family Spring Break trip? Likely, you are envisioning family fun, sun, relaxation and some sightseeing. What you are likely not considering is jet lag! Whether you just hoped over a time zone or took a trip around the world, no one wants sluggishness to ruin their vacation. Our circadian rhythm encourages our body to follow a similar daily schedule, and it can be harder to recover from traveling if your internal clock is thrown off. Luckily, there are tips we can follow to help to help you combat jet lag, and get the most out of your vacation:
  • Keep it flexible: Use your vacation as an opportunity to skip your daily schedule and embrace the sleep and eating schedule of your destination. Don’t feel bad hitting snooze or skipping your 8 a.m. walk. After all, you’re on vacation!
  • Get a good night’s sleep: Don’t put off packing and other tasks to prepare for your trip until the night before. Getting a good night sleep will help you feel rejuvenated and ready to head out once you arrive at your destination.
  • Avoid late night flights: If possible, schedule your flights so that you arrive earlier in the day. This will make it much easier for you to stay awake without falling into the tiredness of jetlag after you arrive at your destination.
  • Break it up: If possible, try to schedule a layover between long flights. This will allow your body some time to acclimate and catch up to the local time. It will also prevent you from becoming overly tired during your travel process.
  • Avoid the bar: While you may want to kick off your trip with a celebration or calm your nerves, you should hold off on heading to the bar. Because the effects of alcohol are heightened at a higher altitude, such as when on a flight, drinking alcohol during your travels may lead to dehydration and increase tiredness. Keep yourself alert and hydrated by opting for a bottle of water instead.
  • Avoid sleep aid medication: Planning to pass out on your over sea flight? This may not be the best idea. While sleeping pills may help you stay asleep the duration of your flight, they may also not wear off upon landing. Lingering effects of a sleeping pill may lead to you feeling sluggish or foggy when you land. The active ingredients in the pill may alsokeep your body from acclimating as smoothly as you hope.
  • Stay hydrated: Our bodies work best when we are healthy and hydrated. Stopping by a kiosk in the airport? Be sure to pass the sodas and opt for a bottle of water instead. Being well hydrated can help ease you into a quicker recovery from jet lag.

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