avatarJudy Derby

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Taylor Swift assures Travis Kelce that jet lag is “a choice”

Has that been your experience?

Photo by Stephen Mease on Unsplash

Avoiding jet lag

Is it possible to choose to not get jet lag? Taylor Swift thinks it is.

Jet lag is a common challenge that travelers face when crossing multiple time zones, causing temporary sleep disturbances and a range of symptoms. This sleep problem occurs when there is a mismatch between a person’s normal daily rhythms and a new time zone.

When Swift finished her last performance and rushed to her private plane to make it back before the SuperBowl began, she had 7 time zones to cross.

That’s potential jet lag territory, but Taylor was overheard telling Travis Kelce that “jet lag is a choice.” Perhaps she meant that being absent from Travis’ game was not an option — it was that important for her to be at his game.

Getting jet lag is definitely something most people experience after that kind of travel.

What is jet lag, anyway?

➡️Jet lag is a temporary sleep problem that occurs when traveling across time zones

➡️Common symptoms of jet lag include fatigue, disrupted sleep patterns, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating.

➡️Before travel, try adjusting sleep patterns, arriving at the destination a couple of days in advance, and following the sleep and waking routines of the destination.

➡️Avoid alcohol, stay hydrated, eat small meals, and consider sleep aids (under supervision by a healthcare provider). These can help minimize jet lag symptoms.

➡️Get advice from sleep specialists or use personalized apps to provide tailored advice based on individual travel details.

Tips for Managing Jet Lag during Travel

When traveling to a different time zone, especially one that is more than 3 hours different from your normal time zone, managing jet lag becomes crucial. Here are some tips that just might make it more manageable:

  • Follow the sleep and waking routines of the destination: Adjust your sleep schedule according to the local time to help your body adapt faster.
  • Stay in well-lit areas during the day: Exposure to natural light can help regulate your internal clock and improve daytime alertness.
  • Take sleep aids as directed by a healthcare provider: If you’re having trouble sleeping at night, consult with a professional and consider using sleep aids to improve the quality of your sleep.
  • Eat small meals: Instead of heavy meals, opt for smaller, lighter meals to avoid feeling sluggish and aid digestion.
  • Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can disrupt your sleep and exacerbate the effects of jet lag. It’s best to avoid it during your travel.
  • Use caffeine and exercise strategically: If you need a boost of energy, use caffeine strategically in the morning or early afternoon. However, avoid caffeine and exercise close to bedtime as they can interfere with your sleep schedule.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water during your flight and throughout your trip to keep your body hydrated and aid in recovery.
  • Take short naps: If you feel sleepy during the day, taking short naps of 15–20 minutes can provide quick relief without disrupting your nighttime sleep.

By implementing these tips, you can better manage (or choose to skip?) jet lag. Which steps do you think Taylor has tried?

“Getting a good night’s sleep and managing your exposure to light can greatly improve your chances of recovering from jet lag quickly.” — Dr. Alison Smith, Sleep Specialist

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Hi, I’m Judy, and I love discovering the area I live in! Follow me if you’d like more stories like this.

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Taylor Swift
Jet Lag
Sleep Issues
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