If your volunteer destination is more than two time zones away, be prepared to deal with jet lag. It is important to know the following tips to help you avoid jet lag.
Avoid alcohol or caffeine. These substances cause irregularities in body function and sleep patterns which can worsen the effects of jet lag.
Do not over eat. A hard working digestive system can cause havoc with a body’s internal clock. It is best to eat a light salad or pasta before your flight.
Drink water. The dry air in aircraft commonly causes dehydration among passengers. Make sure to drink a good amount of water before the flight. It is best to drink the water slowly over time to help your body absorb it.
Relax. Stress and anxiety can cause problems with sleep, especially during travel.
Get exercise. Exercise helps the body and mind relax before a long flight. Light exercise is the best for relaxing oneself.
Bring sleeping aids. Blindfolds, neck pillows, and earplugs are awesome to help you sleep on a crowded plane.
Avoid illness. Jet lag can be worsened by the flu, colds, and other illnesses. Wash your hands often and be mindful of your body’s signals.
Reset your watch. Try to adapt your schedule to your new time zone before even arriving in your destination.
Drink lots of water. Water helps prevent dehydration. It is best to drink it slowly.
Sleep, sleep, sleep. This is the most important technique for combating jet lag. Get as much sleep as you can. Not only is the best method to avoiding jet lag, it also helps pass the time.
Stretch. Sitting still for long hours can cause dangerous blood clots, especially in the legs and lower back. Every few hours make sure to take a stroll up and down the center aisle and stretch your body. This will keep your blood flowing and your body healthy.
Get sun. Sun has a major impact on resetting your body’s clock. Make sure to get at least an hour of sun the first few days you arrive.
Get some light exercise. Exercise helps relax the body and promote adaptation to the new time zone.
When in Rome, be a roman. Follow the daily routine and time schedule of your destination. Stay up or go to bed early depending on your new schedule. This is the best post-flight method to fight jet lag.
Take a shower. Water and bathing can help smooth the body, speeding up adaptation to the new time schedule.
Studies have shown that taking small doses of melatonin can prevent jet lag. See your doctor for details.
Never take sleeping pills. Although this is a common technique for travelers, sleeping pills have been attributed to a number of deaths among long distance passengers.