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Traveling can disrupt your sleep cycle significantly, especially when crossing time zones. To ease this transition, some experts suggest using melatonin in the lead-up to your journey. Dr. Kahn mentions, “Short-term melatonin use can help adjust your circadian rhythm before travel, making it easier to sleep on the plane and adapting to the local time once you arrive.” However, he also cautions about the importance of getting the timing and dosage right and recommends discussing it with a healthcare professional prior to travel. On the other hand, reaching for sleep aids found at drugstores may not be the best option as they can have undesirable side effects without addressing the underlying issue of rhythm adjustment.
If you’re prone to discomfort when seated for extended periods, options like topical magnesium sprays or magnesium supplements may offer some relief by calming restless legs and relaxing muscular tension. Products such as MagniLife’s relaxing leg cream feature a lightweight formula infused with magnesium and calming ingredients like sage and ylang-ylang, potentially alleviating discomfort during long flights.
For those who prefer not to apply creams mid-flight, alternatives like Sole Serenity Good Night foot pads could be effective. These adhesive pads stick to the skin, typically applied to the soles of the feet or calves, and utilize a blend of magnesium, chamomile, lavender, and lemon balm to assist with restlessness for several hours.
Aura Cacia Lavender essential oil
ZzzQuil Pure Zzzs De-Stress melatonin sleep aid gummies
Plant Therapy lavender essential oil
Alo Yoga Magnesium Reset spray
Sole Serenity Good Night foot pads
Watch what you drink
It can be all too easy to get tempted by caffeinated beverages or alcohol while flying; however, avoiding these can help maintain hydration and make it easier to fall asleep when it’s time to rest. Using herbal tea as an alternative can create a calming effect. Some airlines provide herbal tea selections known to improve relaxation and digestion during flights. Personally, I prefer bringing my own choice—Sloane Yogi Egyptian licorice mint tea—ensuring that I have a preferred option, regardless of what the airline serves.
Kahn emphasizes, “Dehydration at any time can make you feel fatigued, affect your mood, and even lead to headaches. When traveling, dehydration can exacerbate the symptoms of jet lag and long flights inherently contribute to dehydration. Staying hydrated on the flight and once you reach your destination is vital, as it can reduce fatigue and help you stay alert as you adjust.”
Yogi Egyptian Licorice Mint tea (six-pack)
Owala FreeSip bottle, 32-ounce
Don’t be afraid to get cozy
Dressing comfortably is essential for long flights. It’s perfectly acceptable to indulge in coziness while flying, provided you’re mindful of your neighbors and etiquette—no bare feet! After taking off, consider removing your shoes and swapping them for warm compression socks and foldable travel slippers. This approach may help alleviate foot pressure, creating a cozy atmosphere that mimics being at home rather than surrounded by hundreds of fellow travelers.
Source
www.cntraveler.com