With 42% of US and UK travellers struggling to cope with jet lag, and over 53% ignoring their fatigue due to FOMO – it got us thinking. Surely there’s a better way to crack the code of long-haul travel! Are the jitters holding you back from your next adventure? We understand the struggle. Say goodbye to jet lag and hello to seamless adventures with sleep expert Dr Charlotte Edelsten's top tips.
TIME YOUR TRAVEL WISELY
If you’re a night owl who loves their beauty sleep, opt for an evening arrival so you can hit the hay and wake up feeling refreshed for the next morning. On the flip side, if you’re an early bird, aim for an early arrival so you can dive straight into your day and power on through till bedtime. Whether you’re a seasoned flyer or trying long haul for the first time, consider a layover. A few hours at YOTELAIR is all you need to get some top-tier Z’s and feel refreshed on your next leg. The best part? You can book from a minimum of four hours for the ultimate power nap.
MIND YOUR MEALS
Adjusting your mealtimes to match your destination’s time zone can trick your Circadian Rhythms (science talk for body clock) and get you back on track. Try to avoid the temptation of excessive airplane snacks and wait until your next scheduled mealtime once you land. The fuel you put into your body can also make or break your recovery process. Stick to whole foods like pistachios, almonds and goji berries or give oily fish like salmon a go, that’s packed with Omega 3 acids.
ALL THE GEAR – GREAT IDEA
Whoever tells you they enjoy sleeping on planes, they’re lying. Don’t be shy about packing flight-friendly accessories to maximise your comfort on board. We’re talking noise-cancelling headphones, eye masks, fluffy socks, neck pillows! Yes, your fellow passengers may laugh, but you won’t be able to hear them because you’ll be sound asleep.
EMBRACE NATURAL LIGHT AND COLOUR THEORY
When combating jet lag, harnessing the power of natural light and colour theory can be a real game-changer. If you can – head straight outdoors once you arrive to reset your Circadian Rhythms. Need an extra hand? Rent a Lumie Bodyclock Glow 150 from Mission Control at selected hotels, designed to mimic natural light with the natural rising and setting of the sun so you wake up feeling your best. Why not set the colour wheel in your YOTEL room to blue and sink into a deeper level of relaxation before you go to sleep! We also love waking up and basking in a yellow glow to feel energised and ready to take on whatever city we’re in.
Remember, jet lag may be inevitable, but it doesn't have to ruin your trip. By planning ahead and implementing some of these tips, you can make the most of every moment of your adventure. Safe travels!
