What time is it? Summer time! Tis the season for vacation, summer study abroad programs and family getaways. With all these exciting experiences in store, there is just one thing putting a damper in the trip: jet lag. Having recently traveled 22 hours from Virginia, U.S. to Taipei, Taiwan, I am currently battling a 12-hour time difference. To all the timezone-crossing flyers out there, I feel your pain!
What exactly is jet lag, you ask?
According to Merriam-Webster, jet lag is officially defined as, "a condition that is characterized by various psychological and physiological effects (as fatigue and irritability), occurs following long flight through several time zones." When we cross time zones, our bodies are thrown into a different circadian rhythm, causing our natural sleep habits, appetite, and concentration to be out of sync. In simpler terms, it's that seemingly uncontrollable, incredibly annoying fatigue that prevents travelers from enjoying their first day in a foreign country.
Here are some tips for conquering the bane of traveling!
1. As they say, "west is best, east is beast."
Jet lag is worse when time is lost, traveling from west to east. Prepare for time differences by making minor adjustments in your sleep habits to match your destination a couple days prior to your trip. It's always harder adapting to shorter days than longer days!
2. Reset your time, reset your mind.
On transatlantic flights, TV monitors and pilots will project/announce the current time period and the destination's time period. Reset the time on your electronics and wristwatch to that of your destination. This is a start to helping your body adjust sleep schedules.
3. Sleep on local time.
Fight temptation to sleep during the day time by exposing yourself to daylight. If needed, coffee can also be your best friend. This will help you feel more accustomed to the new time zone and more ready for bed come night time.
4. Consider additional cures.
Melatonin plays a large role in our body's internal clock and sleep cycle, so when it is low, it can be difficult to sleep. If you are restless during bedtime, synthetic versions of melatonin can be bought in pharmaceutical stores to help regulate sleep. *Be sure to check with your health care provider prior to purchase.
Jet lag affects different people in different ways. Although it is an inevitable, bothersome side-effect of traveling, it is certainly conquerable. So without further ado, show jet lag who's boss. Happy traveling!
