We all know that feeling – tired, exhausted and grumpy, when we’re supposed to be awake… Energetic and hungry, when everybody else is sleeping…
Jet lag, also known as sleep fatigue, is caused by the disruption of the circadian rhythm (body clock) from travelling across different time zones. Symptoms include sleepiness, loss of appetite, irritability and nausea.
Whether you’re arriving in Australia for the first time or returning from an overseas holiday, these tips will help you combat jet lag the next time you travel.
Before you go….
Be well rested
Don’t have a late one the night before your flight. Instead, try to be relaxed and stress free. Eat healthy, get plenty of fresh air and water, and avoid alcohol.
Adjust before you go
In the week leading up to your overseas flight, adjust your sleeping pattern. If you’re travelling east, start moving your bed time half an hour earlier each night for a week. If you’re travelling west, do the opposite and start moving your bed time half an hour later each night. You can even slowly adjust meal times!
Once you arrive..
Soak up the sun
Sunlight exposure is key! Being in daylight will help trigger your hormonal cycle and retrain your body clock to make you sleepy at the appropriate time for your current time zone.
Stay hydrated!
Not only will drinking lots of water help counteract dehydration, it will also help to prevent jet lag symptoms. Water also makes you more alert so you can focus and tackle the activities of the day ahead.
Arrive early
Allow yourself some time to settle into Australia (or your new overseas destination). For new students, try arriving a few days before Orientation Week to ensure you are well rested and ready to start learning and having fun.
Hope these tips are useful in your fight against jet lag.
Happy travels!
– Sapph
