Understanding Jet Lag:What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Bounce Back Faster
- Carol McKee
- Aug 7
- 2 min read
Jet lag is that pesky travel companion that can turn your dream vacation or important business trip into a groggy, disoriented experience. But what exactly is jet lag, why does it happen, and most importantly, how can you outsmart it to start your adventures bright-eyed and bushy-tailed?
Why Jet Lag Happens: The Body Clock vs. The Clock on the Wall
Our bodies run on an internal clock known as the circadian rhythm—a roughly 24-hour cycle that regulates our sleep-wake patterns, hormone release, body temperature, and other vital functions. This internal rhythm is heavily influenced by natural light and darkness.
When you travel across multiple time zones rapidly, such as on a long-haul flight, your internal clock and the local time get out of sync. Imagine your body thinks it's still bedtime while the new destination is ready for breakfast. This mismatch is the culprit behind jet lag.
How Jet Lag Affects Travelers
The symptoms of jet lag can vary but often include:
Fatigue and sleep disturbances
Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
Irritability or mild mood changes
Digestive issues
General feeling of discomfort or malaise
For travelers, this means lost time and energy, sometimes missing out on key activities or business moments.
Smart Strategies to Beat Jet Lag and Adjust Faster
The good news? You don't have to surrender to jet lag! Here are practical tips to help your body swiftly adapt to a new time zone:
Gradually Reset Your Schedule – A few days before traveling, shift your sleeping and eating times closer to those of your destination to prepare your body clock.
Stay Hydrated – Air travel dehydrates you, which worsens fatigue. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight.
Control Light Exposure – Light is the most powerful cue for your circadian rhythm. Seek sunlight in the morning if you need to advance your body clock or avoid late-afternoon light if you want to delay it.
Take Short Naps Wisely – Brief naps (20-30 minutes) can energize you without interfering with nighttime sleep.
Use Melatonin Supplements – Melatonin, a natural hormone regulating sleep, can be helpful if used appropriately. Consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.
Eat Meals According to Local Time – This helps reset your internal clock and aligns metabolism to new schedules.
Move Your Body – Gentle exercise can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
Timeshifter (or other similar) App - Download an app on your phone that tells you what you should be doing when based on your flight.
Remember, your body generally adjusts at a rate of about one time zone per day, so be patient.
If you’d like personalized advice on your upcoming trip—whether it’s finding flights with ideal arrival times or planning your first days to help your body reset—just let us know. Here’s to seamless travel and waking up refreshed wherever you go!
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