Jet lag can be rough. Tired, groggy, sluggish, constipated, dehydrated and totally out of it! All you want to do is enjoy your precious vacation, why does it have to be so difficult? Well, the good news is there are very helpful tips from the wisdom of ayurveda that may help you recover quicker and prevent discomfort.
10 Ayurveda Tips If You Are Jet Lagged
Water
One of the common health problems that affect airplane passengers is dehydration, often the result of a lack of humidity in the cabin air. The air inside the cabin of a plane usually has a humidity level of 10 to 20 percent — much lower than a comfortable typical indoor humidity of 30 to 65 percent. Drink half your body weight in ounces for two days before your flight and drink warm water all day during the flight.
Shilajit
Considered the herb for rejuvenation. Known as the destroyer of weakness, shilajit is a great medicinal substance for those interested in physical performance. It helps to recover from physical weakness and improves brain functioning especially after a long tiring flight.
Nasya Oil
Nasya Oil is used in Ayurvedic treatments to clear nasal blockages and treat respiratory problems. These nasal drops protect you from environmental toxins and also keep your nasal passages hydrated. It also relieves mental and emotional stress, anxiety, fear and negativity. Lubrication of the nasal passages with medicated oil provides subtle moisture to the air we breathe and affects the higher cerebral faculties and sensory organs.
Ashwagandha
In Ayurveda, there are specific herbs with adaptogenic benefits and ashwagandha is one of them. Adaptogens are substances (a combination of amino acids, vitamins, and herbs) that modulate your response to stress or a changing environment. Solid adaptogen to alleviate the effects of stress. Adaptogens help the body cope with external stress such as toxins in the environment and internal stress such as anxiety and insomnia.
Abhyanga
Abhyanga, or self-massage can be done as soon as you settle down at your hotel. Relax with a 15 minute warm oil massage, followed by a warm shower. If you are on the go and don’t have time for a full body massage, just massage your feet!
Iodine Supplements
Humans are exposed to solar radiation from the sun on a daily basis. But the atmosphere of the Earth protects us from over exposure. When we fly to higher altitudes the protection is much lower. The more time spent in-flight, the higher the potential dose. It provides natural support for radiation exposure.
Triphala
Natural bowel toner that supports regular bowel movements. It can be used for short periods of time around travels without dependency. An ideal dose should be two tablets before bed or in the morning. This can be a more convenient method, but if you travel a lot and have a shortage of time, ensure sipping on triphala tea.
Manjistha
Manjista is one of Ayurveda’s most prized herbs for supporting lymphatic flow. Altitude shock affects cellular pressure, which is responsible for lymph movement. Move around on the plane to prevent blood clots and swelling and to promote lymphatic flow.
Ginger
Used as a travel sickness remedy, and there is some evidence that it may be as effective as prescription medication. Chewing ginger slices can help prevent nausea and vomiting sensation on the plane.
Warm milk
Simple recipes to rid travel fatigue and ensure sound restful sleep:
- Add one-eighth teaspoon or just a dash of nutmeg powder to a cup of warm milk. Drink it before bedtime.
- Alternatively, you can add one-quarter teaspoon of freshly ground nutmeg to a cup of warm water or any fruit juice. Drink it before bedtime.
- You can also mix a dash of nutmeg powder in one tablespoon of Indian gooseberry (amla) juice. Consume this three times a day. In addition to insomnia, it will also treat indigestion and depression.
Happy travails!!
