The concern of many who travel abroad is the famous Jet Lag. What to say about a trip that can take up to 30 hours to Japan? In this article, we will leave some tips and experiences on how to overcome Jet Lag during your trip to Japan or any other country.
I hope this article helps you overcome Jet Lag and make the most of your trip. Always remember to check the arrival time on your ticket.
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What is Jet Lag?
Jet Lag usually occurs when you switch day for night or your sleeping schedule, altering your circadian cycle and biological clock. I will leave a more technical definition of Jet Lag below:
Definition of Jet Lag: It is a temporary condition caused by the misalignment between the individual's circadian cycle and external schedules, observed in travels that exceed at least two time zones.
Jet Lag can easily occur when you fly to a time zone different from the one you are used to by five hours or more.
If you face this problem, you may experience symptoms such as: irritability, excessive fatigue, extreme drowsiness, difficulty waking up or sleeping. This happens due to the alteration of your circadian cycle, which is your biological clock.
My Experience with Jet Lag in Japan
I believe I did not experience Jet Lag, as I stayed awake for about a whole day on the plane, arriving late at night in Japan. I had a normal night’s sleep and woke up full of energy even with the 12-hour difference.
Perhaps it is because I do not have difficulty waking up like some people do. The fact is that I do not believe Jet Lag is a concerning problem for you who wish to travel to Japan or any other country.
Start by booking a flight that arrives at the destination close to night, so you arrive sleepy and can rest even if it is still day or morning at your departure location. Even if you stay long on the plane, it won’t be a problem during a 30-hour trip. Enjoy the trip to overcome Jet Lag.
After a good night’s sleep upon arriving tired in Japan, I also recharged with energy drinks and coffee from vending machines, although some do not recommend it. I also strongly recommend resting in a SPA and Onsen, this will revitalize your energy and prepare you for new adventures.
Do Not Disrupt Your Sleep
One way to quickly adapt to a new routine in a new country is by avoiding things that may disrupt your sleep. Try not to eat anything before sleeping, at night opt for light foods.
Fortunately, Japanese cuisine is full of healthy and light options, but at the same time, delicious. Take the opportunity to try a miso soup or perhaps some Udon and Soba.
Alcoholic beverages and caffeine at night can end up disrupting your sleep. I hope at least a few days before staying up all night at a Japanese Izakaya Bar.
Tips to Avoid Jet Lag
First of all, analyze how long the trip to Japan will take, how long you will be on the plane, and what time you will arrive in Japan. With this information, you can plan a way to avoid Jet Lag.
The main tips to avoid Jet Lag are training before the trip, resting well, and sleeping on the plane only during the night in Japan. On the first day, try to stay awake until later to feel sleepy.
Many people have the habit of closing all the lights in the room to have a good sleep, but if you want to adapt to Japan’s schedule, let the intense sunlight help your internal clock reset to your local time.
Natural light in the morning helps your body with healthy cortisol, necessary to shake off the grogginess upon waking. Try to spend your first days sunbathing by the beach or pool, walking, shopping, or engaging in other outdoor activities.
Avoid using social media and cell phones in bed, as this will disrupt your sleep and increase Jet Lag. In fact, these tips may sound simple, but I believe you will find the best way to face Jet Lag in Japan.
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