Whether you’re heading off to Switzerland to do some banking, or jetting off to New York to meet new clients, jet lag can have a serious impact on your trip. Not only can it affect you physically, jet lag can affect you mentally too. And if you’re travelling for business this could have catastrophic implications if you’re not operating at your optimum.
As experts in travel, we know a thing or two about jet lag, and have some tried and tested ways to help you arrive rested and ready to go, no matter your destination.
Whether you’re a frequent flier, or you only travel by plane when is absolutely necessary, you’ll have experienced some form of jet leg no matter how many time zones you’ve crossed. Jet leg has an array of symptoms, but the most common one is daytime fatigue. It’s that bone-tired feeling where everything takes just a bit more effort and staying awake is nigh on impossible.
With jet lag you may experience a general feeling of unwellness, such as a headache or nausea, and you may have difficulty staying alert. Another common symptom includes gastrointestinal problems that can last for a couple of days. You may also find that you suffer sleep disturbances, such as insomnia.
Jet lag occurs when you cross multiple time zones. This is because it puts your internal clock or circadian rhythms, which regulate your sleep-wake cycle, out of sync with the time in your new location.
There’s also a growing body of research that suggests the changes in cabin pressure and high altitudes associated with flying may also contribute to jet lag.
Follow these simple steps to help you beat jet lag next time you travel.
As soon as you get on the plane, set your watch to the time of your destination. This will help you when flying to work out when you should sleep and eat. But, a word of caution, don’t do this beforehand, or you may end up missing your flight.
As tempting as it can be to have a coffee, especially if it’s a red eye, caffeine can affect your ability to sleep and increase jet lag recovery time. Similarly, the effect of alcohol at altitude will increase tiredness and cause dehydration.
Getting up and doing exercises throughout the fight will help to keep the blood flowing. To avoid DVT, good circulation is key, and investing in a pair of flight socks will help minimise the risk of DVT and improve circulation.
Take melatonin tablets on the flight, and the for the first few nights at your destination. Speak to your GP about recommended doses.
Choose a flight which arrives in daylight, as this will make it easier to stay awake. Of course, when you fly private, you get to set your own schedule.
It may not seem it, but a flight is the perfect place to meditate. There are so many sounds that you can tune into, and let them wash over you, that you’ll be in a meditative state before you know it.
If you prefer to harness modern technology, invest in a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, sit back and put on your favourite meditation app.
Avoid sugary food to help stave off the inevitable crash. And if you’re travelling to a far-flung place, like Sydney, you might want to start adjusting your eating patterns a couple of days before departure so that your body isn’t in such a shock when you arrive.
Flying by private jet, isn’t just convenient, it can help you get over jet lag faster than flying commercial. On a private jet you get to set your own schedule, from take-off times, to when the stewards serve your meals, you even say when the lights are dimmed and have your own bed to help you get a restful sleep.
If you’re ready to experience flying like never before, become a member of this exclusive and prestigious club, and you can start enjoying unparalleled service as you jet around the globe.
