Long flights can leave even the most experienced travelers feeling groggy, disoriented, and out of sync—jet lag is not fun. Adjusting sleep schedules and staying hydrated are common remedies, but there are lesser-known steps that may work. Your mileage may vary … these work for some and not for others. In this post, I’ll share some secrets that may help you overcome jet lag like never before.
1. Grounding or ‘Earthing’
Ever heard of grounding or ‘earthing’? The concept is simple: direct contact with the Earth’s surface can help reset our internal body clocks. Take off your shoes and walk barefoot on grass, sand, or soil shortly after landing, benefitting from the Earth’s natural electrical charges that can reduce the effects of jet lag. For more detailed information and scientific research about grounding or ‘earthing’, you can visit The Earthing Institute. This site provides a wealth of information about the practice and benefits of grounding and resources for further reading. It’s a great place to learn about this unique approach to combating jet lag.
2. Fasting and Meal Timing
Research shows that fasting for approximately 16 hours before reaching your destination, and then aligning your meals with the local meal times, can speed up your body’s internal clock adjustment. This approach is based on the idea that food—or the absence of it—can influence our circadian rhythms.
The trick is a conscious manipulation of meal schedules, which, together with timed light exposure (tip 10 below), can help reset your body’s clock more quickly and reduce the impact of jet lag.
3. Color Therapy
Exposure to certain colors at specific times affects our body’s melatonin production, the sleep hormone. For example, blue light emitted by screens suppresses melatonin and keeps you awake, while red or amber light induces sleepiness. Consider using colored light bulbs or screen filters to manage your exposure accordingly.
4. Essential Oils
Harness the soothing properties of essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and ylang-ylang to facilitate sleep. Carry a small vial, inhale the scent, or apply it to pulse points for relaxation and better sleep quality while combating jet lag. Additionally, diffusing these oils in your room can create a calming atmosphere conducive to a good night’s sleep, helping you adjust to the new time zone more quickly. Portable diffusers (USB or battery-powered) are available to make this possible while traveling.
5. Acupressure and Reflexology
Tap into ancient practices like acupressure and reflexology, which involve applying pressure to specific body points to promote healing and balance. Certain points are believed to aid with jet lag by inducing relaxation, improving blood flow, and resetting the body’s internal clock. Consider arranging a session at your hotel or destination in advance, which can help ensure you have this rejuvenating experience ready to overcome jet lag upon arrival.
6. Homeopathic Remedies
Numerous homeopathic remedies, such as No Jet Lag tablets, claim to alleviate jet lag symptoms. Although scientific evidence remains inconclusive, many travelers swear by their effectiveness. Additional homeopathic remedies for jetlag to research and consider include Arnica Montana (European plan used to treat bruises and muscle soreness), Cocculus Indicus (Indian plant used to alleviate sleep disturbances), and Gelsemium (derived from the yellow jasmine plant, used to treat flu symptoms). Remember, individual responses can vary greatly – always consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment.
7. Sunglasses Hack
Wearing sunglasses isn’t just a fashion statement. By strategically wearing sunglasses to limit light exposure during certain parts of the day and removing them when you need to let your eyes soak in natural light, you can manipulate your light intake to align with your new schedule.
Here’s how the ‘sunglasses hack’ works: if you’re flying westward, your day is essentially stretched out longer, throwing your internal body clock off balance. By exposing yourself to evening light in the new time zone, you effectively help your body clock to delay, aligning it more closely with the new local time. Conversely, the day is shortened if you’re traveling east, advancing your body clock. Exposure to morning light in the new locale promotes this advancement, assisting your body in adjusting to the new time zone.
These are some more traditional methods of beating jetlag:
8. Exercise
Physical exercise is not only good for staying fit, but it’s also beneficial for adjusting your body clock. Engaging in some form of physical activity after landing can help reduce jet lag symptoms. If you’re tired, a light walk or jog can lift your energy levels and reset your internal clock.
9. Hydrate Wisely
While staying hydrated is crucial, what you hydrate with is also important. Avoid caffeinated beverages or alcohol, which can dehydrate and mess with your sleep patterns. Opt for water, herbal tea, or electrolyte drinks to keep hydrated and help your body adjust.
10. Natural Light Exposure
One of the best ways to reset your internal clock and fight jet lag is to expose yourself to natural light in the new time zone. Spend time outside in natural daylight as soon as possible after landing. This direct exposure to sunlight will help your body understand it is a new ‘daytime’, helping to reset your circadian rhythms.
11. Meditation and Deep Breathing
Practicing mindful meditation and deep breathing exercises can also significantly mitigate the effects of jet lag. They also help to relax, reduce stress, and improve sleep, all of which help overcome jet lag. Taking a few moments to breathe deeply and focus on your mind can make a significant difference.
12. Set Your Watch to Your Destination Time
A simple yet effective hack is to set your watch to the destination time as soon as you board your flight. This psychological trick can help your mind and body adjust to the new time, reducing the effects of jet lag.
Experience New Approaches to Beating Jet Lag
Hopefully, some of these unconventional tips for beating jetlag will help you transform your travel experience by conquering jet lag head-on. Say goodbye to grogginess and start your travels refreshed and ready to go!
