What is jet lag? Jet lag is a disruption of your sleeping patterns that happens when you travel rapidly (i.e. via plane) across time zones. It affects certain people more severely than others. But is jet lag real or is it just a trick of the mind? That is what I aim to answer!
Ways To Trick Your Brain Out Of Jet Lag
If it can be avoided, then it must be real, right? Well, let’s see about that. Below I have compiled a list of ways you can avoid jet lag, thus diminishing it into a false entity altogether.
• Make sure that you get a full night of sleep before your flight
• Book a flight that arrives at your destination during daylight hours. This will entice you to get out and explore your new surroundings, therefore, tiring you out before your first sleep in your new time zone.
• Avoid drinking on the plane, as alcohol increases fatigue and dehydration, which are both key ingredients to bad jet lag.
• Change the time on your watch to your destination’s time when you get onto the plane, so you become more in tune with the time at your destination.
Jet Lag or Fatigue?
Many people confuse the tired feeling they get after a long-haul flight with jet lag. Think about it, after a 12-hour flight at high altitude, weird aeroplane food, and strangers cramped alongside you, you are bound to feel exhausted! So next time you arrive in a foreign land and that tired feeling creeps up on you, don’t immediately jump to the ‘it’s jet lag!’ conclusion. All you may need is a little rest and relaxation to feel yourself again in no time!
So, Real or Fake then?
While there are thousands of accounts of jet lag, it does also appear to be a state of mind. Jet lag can be easily avoided if you take the necessary, simple steps. If jet lag truly was an epidemic, pilots and air hostesses wouldn’t stand a chance!
