We at Misha Patel Studio love the idea of escaping to shape! But, we have a feeling that none of you Escapers want to deal with the ever-so exhausting reality of jet-lag.
For those in a set routine, jet lag can be additionally jarring- as the developed internal clock will resist transitioning to a new sleeping and eating schedule. Studies have shown that travelers going from west to east have a more difficult time adjusting, as they feel they have lost time rather than gained.
No matter which way you’re headed, here are some tips to prevent jet-lag and deplane with more energy for what’s ahead. We have a feeling you’ll want it through the beautifully-backdropped bootcamps in Bali!
How to prepare:
1. You can start the day you book! How is that for planning ahead? We opt for
overnights, as you will be more likely to eat dinner at a regular time and sleep
through the flight. The more sleep you can get, the more well rested you’ll feel upon arrival.
2. What to wear. Though we love the old-fashioned notion of dressing up for the
airport, we’d suggest baggy over tight-fitting clothing and shoes. The body (especially ankles) tends to swell under cabin pressure. You’ll thank us for the advice to skip the strapped heels on the trek to baggage claim
3. Fuel yourself right. Try to avoid the mocha that’s calling your name post-security check. Instead, hydrate with plenty of good old H20 and bring along snacks like freeze-dried fruits and nuts. It will be easier to fall asleep and resist the sodium-richsnacks they serve on flight.
In-Flight
4. Limit alcohol. The effects of alcohol are magnified at a higher altitude, so one glass of wine can translate to 2-3. Just imagine combining all of the symptoms of jet lag with a hangover. Not pretty. If you feel a glass of wine will help ease you to sleep, and
you’d prefer to avoid sleep aids, we’re not stopping you! Which brings us to…
5. Sleeping aids. Many readings you will see report sleeping pills as a useful option, but at MPS, we always believe in playing it safe and staying au naturel. Achieve the same results without the risk of any unwanted side effects by using aromatherapy oils like: lavender, jasmine, ylang ylang, and sandalwood. You can also try using an eye mask
as well as noise canceling earphones to drown out distractions.
6. Stretch it out. You’ll have to take a trip to the restroom or two if you followed tip #3, so take advantage of the “free to walk around cabin” signal. Clasp your hands behind your back and take a forward folding stretch to open the shoulders and stretch the hamstrings. Take a few lunges while you wait near the restroom, as well as quad stretches by bending the knee behind you and grabbing for the ankle. In your seat, be sure to do some isometrics like: knee up to chest stretches, contract the thigh muscles and march in place, and ankle rolls. Roll out through the neck frequently and stretch the spine by arching back and reaching the arms up and behind you.
Once you land:
7. Freshen up with a carry-on package of lotion, chapstick, and maybe even a hydrating face mister. Your skin will soak it in after being exposed to the ultra-dry cabin air.
8. Get warm! Some new research on neurophysiology has shown that raising your temperature may help reset your circadian rhythms (natural clock). Exercising, finding a sauna, or taking a warm bath may help ward off jet lag.
Try as best you can to get on “normal time” and do as the Romans do. Try to eat the meal locals are eating after you have arrived, as well as fall asleep around the same time of night. However, don’t stress if it doesn’t happen right away. Jet lag is a natural result of travel, so don’t let the pre-emptive measures of avoiding it hinder your excitement of what’s ahead!
Bon Voyage,
MPS
www.mishapatelstudio.com
Misha is the owner and founder of Misha Patel Studio, a boutique wellness studio in San Jose, California. She is a fully certified Stott Pilates and TRX Suspension and Rip Training instructor with an emphasis on injuries and special populations. Misha’s teachings are heavily influenced by her understanding of human anatomy and kinesiology, which enables her to aid each of her clients in achieving his or her individual goals in a healthy, appropriate, and proactive manner. As an accomplished dancer, figure skater, and choreographer, Misha has spoken at several national and international conventions about injury prevention and the importance of strength and flexibility. Misha is a senior ambassador for Lululemon who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts, Dance and a Bachelor of Science in Commerce, Marketing from Santa Clara University. She understands a healthy body is not merely a fit body, and that a goal-oriented and mindful approach to wellbeing is essential.
To get more first hand tips & body-changing work outs from Misha, Escape with us to Puglia, Italy June 23-30, 2012. Mention Misha and receive a special discount.
