What is jet lag?
jet lag /noun/ extreme tiredness and other physical effects felt by a person after a long flight across several time zones.
Jet lag is the worst. And it is pointless trying to escape the angry clutches of this beast; however there are tiny ways to repel the little monster like kryptonite. I wish I could practice what I preach, but even I fall prey to its ugly little ways. All I can say is, I’m far from sweetness and light come day two of travel. In fact, JetSet Tot starts to grow fangs around hour 30 as well, so I’m just going to chalk-it up to “it must be hereditary.” I know, I know, but whenever I can place blame on the genes and not parenting, I so will!
Can you prevent jet lag?
Truth is, if you are planning to do battle with jet lag, individualized and personalized strategies work the best. Knowing your own body’s chemistry, as well as your child’s, can make a world of difference the next time you decide to globe-trot across multiple time zones. But as any Savvy Sassy Jetsetting Mom knows, this my friends, is simply unrealistic.
But is it that unrealistic for your traveling tots? I mean, they don’t have to deal with the stresses of last-minute packing, prepping the house, remembering passports and tying up loose ends. So why can’t they start adjusting their lifestyles a few days before jetting off? Hey! It’s worth the shot, right?
Helpful hints for beating jet lag
- Do drink plenty of water. In fact, don’t drink anything, but water. And only add lemon if you really must. Do not drink alcohol.
- Do sleep as much as you can on the flight. It’s ideal to book a night flight so your body will become naturally tired.
- Do not eat crap. Eat clean before your trip and small meals once you land. You’ll be doing everyone including yourself a big favor. Your tummy will thank you.
- Do play the cool-guy part and rock those sunglasses throughout the flight and until you arrive at your hotel. Sure you might look like those ridiculous hipsters, but introducing sunlight gradually will help tremendously. Do not forget the laptop, iPhone and TV. Those need to be dimmed if used as well. Actually, just avoid them altogether. Light is light and jet-lag feeds off it.
- Do consider checking with your doctor about taking a mild sleeping pill or Benadryl, but DO NOT under any circumstances mix it with even the tiniest bit of alcohol. When you are 35,000 feet up in the air it is not the place to have any type of reaction and your fellow passengers might tie you to the wing if you pass out and snore.
Which way is worse?
East to west? Easy-peasy. West to East? Nightmare. So give yourself a little more adjustment time. I’m not saying cutting off valuable travel time once you reach your destination, but try and give yourself a little more wiggle room before departure. Biggest time saver? Lists. Make a packing list and don’t wear those items starting a week before your flight. This way they are washed, pressed and ready to go.
Oh, and embrace, bask in and enjoy any and all silence if possible. Even five minutes of meditation is better than none. And bonus points for those moms who can sneak away for a massage. (I’ve heard stories, Yes, Virginia — they really do exist!) You’re basically my hero. xx
Wheels up!
This is your Savvy Sassy Captain speaking. We’ve secured the cabin and we’re clear for take-off.
Comments
i swear so much of our well being is simply fixed or supported by drinking water!
Yes, sugar and alcohol in flight are a no no! Great tips 🙂
As a kid, jet lag never bothered me. Now as an adult, I sometimes get jet lag when traveling in the same time zone!
I’m not a fan of jet lag but who is? Going back never seems to be a problem for me but going forward is a killer. I think that has to do with me being a nightowl vs morning person.
I’ve only traveled great distance once, to Great Britain. The time difference was enough that I was exhausted both coming and going for a couple of days.
Great tips. I never even thought about something like this. Makes so much sense now.
I have never been on a flight, but I have heard of jet lag! I thought it was something that just made you tired? I didn’t know it made you sick! I will remember this if I ever get on a plane.
I have never had to experience this before because I have never left the US but when my husband goes to China on business he feels it – takes a few days to get adjusted – I couldn’t imagine!
I’ve only flown once to the Virgin Islands and I was so excited that I was okay, but coming back home was a different story. 🙂 I hope to travel more once my son gets older and/or when my hubby and I retire.
I’ve never flown, I’ve always wondered if jet lag is real or not.