Business Travel and Jet Lag

Jet lag is a common sleep disorder that occurs when the body’s natural clock can’t keep up in different time zones. But there are simple steps you can take before, during and after a trip to lessen its effects.

• Get plenty of rest before your trip, and start shifting your bedtime a few nights prior to travel: earlier if you’re traveling east or later if you’re traveling west.
• Set your watch to the new time as soon as you board the plane.
• When you get there, avoid napping during the day; if you must, take a 20- to 30-minute power nap to avoid disrupting your nighttime sleep.
• Do not eat large meals or drink alcohol or caffeine near bedtime.
• Exercise in the morning or afternoon, not near bedtime.
• Use earplugs and a sleep mask for undisturbed sleep.
• Get outdoors; the sun exposure can help your internal clock adjust.