Flying to China is exciting. Adventure awaits!
However, you're probably going to experience one of the few downsides of traveling abroad – jet lag.
Although there’s no instant cure or magic formula to avoid jet lag, luckily there are a few things you can do to help you get back on your feet quickly.
Read on to discover 10 ways to help fight jet lag.
1. Arrive early
Get to your school in China at least a few days before your first class. If you can manage to arrive a week early, even better!
Having time to look around your new surrounds will make you feel more at ease. You might even be able to squeeze in some sightseeing.
2. Rest up
Staying up all night before you leave for China and hoping you’ll sleep on the plane isn’t a good idea.
Ensure you get plenty of rest prior to leaving your home country.
3. Consider a stopover
Traveling long distances can be a pain. Why not plan a stopover to break up the journey?
4. Keep calm (and carry on)
Stress can make jet lag worse. So arrive early at the airport, and always keep your passport, wallet and phone on you.
Meditation is a great way to alleviate stress and you can easily do it before, during and after your flight. Your airport’s prayer room can be used for this purpose.
Try to find a quiet spot to meditate.
If the school’s representative is waiting for you at your destination, it’s a good idea to have their contact details handy in case your flight is delayed.
5. Dose up
Consider taking multi-vitamins in the days leading up to your departure, as well as throughout your time in China if you feel it’s needed.
Vitamins can help maintain your energy levels and mental alertness, as well as provide support when you’re stressed.
Always consult your healthcare practitioner before you dose up.
6. Drink, drink, drink
The average person sheds gallons of water on a long-distance flight, so make sure you stay hydrated. This will help reduce jet lag, fatigue and headaches.
While it’s tempting to make the most of the free alcohol on the plane, wait until you touch down before you hit the hard stuff. After all, Chinese rice wine is dirt cheap!
7. Get comfortable
To help you rest on the plane, use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. You may have to pay extra for this (depending on the airline), so bring your own.
An eye mask can also help create the right conditions for sleep.
8. Eat right
Avoid eating unhealthy food and heavy meals before or during your flight. An upset stomach is the last thing you’d want!
Once you’re in China, eat at the ‘right’ meal time (and try Chinese food - it's delicious!). This will help you adjust quickly to your new environment.
Eating fried and unhealthy food should be avoided.
9. Love the sun
Try to get some natural sunlight as soon as you touch down. This will help your natural body clock be aware that it’s still daytime.
10. Move!
Exercise and burn any excess energy to help you get a good night’s rest.
And don’t forget to keep exercising for the duration of your stay. You’ll be a better person (and teacher) for it!
Got any helpful jet lag tips of your own? Please share them below.
