How to Manage Jet Lag on Business Trips

Jet lag is not a new phenomenon for business travellers. The unpleasant effects of crossing time zones will not only hamper your sleep patterns but also minimize productivity and make important meetings less efficient.

However, with proper planning and proactive approaches, you can overcome the impact of jet lag and stay strong during your corporate trips. This blog highlights some points regarding managing jet lag during your journeys. Before hiring the best business travel agency in Toronto, ensure that you and your employees know these essential tips to minimize jet lag.

What is jet lag?

Jet lag occurs when your body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, is not in sync with the local time at your destination.

This disharmony may lead to several symptoms, including fatigue, insomnia, headaches, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. The intensity of jet lag depends on the number of time zones you need to cross during your business travel and their individual differences.

Pre-trip preparations

Gradually Adjust Your Sleep Schedule

Before getting your customized itinerary from a reputed business travel company Toronto, change your sleep schedule according to the time of your destination. If you are going towards the east, go to bed and wake up earlier. But if you are travelling to the west, sleep and wake up later.

Focus on your sleep

Check your sleep pattern before the trip, which is mandatory. Try to get a good sleep for at least 7-8 per day before your departure.

Plan your flight schedule wisely

While booking flights, prefer those that arrive in the early evening local time. This will help you get adequate sleep time and ultimately inspire you to adjust to your local time quickly.

Stay hydrated

Hydration is another parameter that minimizes your jet lag. Dehydration may aggravate the symptoms, so drink adequate water before and during your travel. Try to avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they may hamper your sleep.

During the flight

Adjust your watch

When you catch the flight, set your watch according to the time of your destination. This tiny psychological hack may prepare you mentally for the new time zone.

Move around

If you remain inactive throughout the journey, you may feel sluggish. Try to get up from your seat and move around the cabin periodically, do some light stretching, or you may simply perform some in-seat exercises to improve blood circulation.

Upon Arrival

Get accustomed to the local schedule

Once you arrive at your destination, align your activities with the local time. Eat meals at local times, and don't take a nap during the day. Try to go outside, as natural light may quickly reset your internal clock.

Stay active

Exercise can uplift your energy levels and help you get habituated to the local time zone. To manage your jet lag, do some exercises like walking, jogging, or yoga. Many hotels also embrace corporate travellers with in-house gyms or fitness centres that will help you overcome your jet lag.

Manage your meals

Eat a healthy, balanced diet at local times. Don't take junk foods or other calorie-rich items, as you may feel sluggish. Try to increase your protein intake to maintain your energy levels.

Take short naps

If you can't stay awake during the day, take short naps (not more than 20-30 minutes). Avoid long naps, as they may disrupt your nighttime sleep.

Maintain good sleep hygiene

Create a peaceful environment

Before sleeping, create a perfect atmosphere. Use curtains or blinds to block outside light, keep the room temperature favorable, and wear earplugs to mask disruptive sounds.

Make a bedtime routine

Fix your bedtime routine so that your body can get the signal that it's time to shut down. Just before bed, engage in soothing activities such as reading, listening to soft music, or taking a warm bath.

Restrict your screen time

The blue light emitted by electronic gadgets may disrupt the production of melatonin, a hormone that induces sleep. Don’t use mobile phones or other equipment at least one hour before bedtime.

Consider Supplements

Melatonin

Melatonin supplements are useful in controlling your sleep cycle. Once you take melatonin, your body gets the signal that it’s time to sleep. But don’t consume these supplements without consulting a physician.

Herbal remedies

Herbal teas like chamomile or valerian root may stimulate relaxation and improve sleep quality. These are alternative ways of medicine.

Conclusion

Though jet lag is a common phenomenon, you can manage it in multiple ways, including proper planning and self-care. By following the tips mentioned above, you can reduce the effects of jet lag and make yourself productive on business trips.

Are you looking for the best travel agency Toronto with plenty of experience managing and organizing business trips? YYZ Travel Corporate perfectly fits into this category. Our experts know how to make a business trip enjoyable with continuous support and assistance. From flight booking to accommodation, we are your trusted partner in corporate travel.

Check out our website and learn more about our services.