Most of us will have travel plans at some stage over the summer. If you’re flying, you want to arrive in your best possible state, particularly on long haul trips.
Luckily there are a few things you can do to combat the worst effects of your flight:
- Prepare Before You Board
The best time to tackle the effects of flying are well before you board, where you can prepare for the some, or all, of the symptoms your bound to experience.
Planning ahead will reduce your stress during the flight and ensure you arrive at your destination in a state to enjoy your holiday.
- Breathe Deeply
The pressure in an airplane cabin and diminished humidity makes it more difficult to get oxygen into your bloodstream. This can cause fatigue, headaches, dizziness and brain fog.
Long, easy, deep breaths will help your body work better and combat those unwanted symptoms.
- Keep Active
Sitting for long periods of time in cramped quarters can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This is the lack of blood flow to the lower limbs, which can cause a blood clot to form with coagulating blood. It can be painful, or in some cases can lead to death.
Stretch whenever possible, especially on long flights, to get blood circulating. A trip to the bathroom and back is a good way to get you moving. Just the act of getting out of your seat and stretching your legs and arms, will give your body much needed relief.
- Dress for the flight
Temperatures in a cabin can vary greatly from cool to hot, adding to your discomfort and general stress levels. Dressing in layers will allow you to adapt to the fluctuating temperature. Long, loose pants are also a good idea to increase your sense of comfort.
- Boost your Immune System
It’s important to protect your immune system while airborne. Being in a closed environment with dry air, and people from all over the world is a recipe for colds and flu.
You can prepare in advance of your departure by ensuring your diet is full of fruits and vegetables, especially dark leafy greens like kale, and brightly coloured fruits like berries.
A well-balanced diet will give you all the essential nutrients your body needs. If you don’t think your diet has got what it takes to get you through, try supplements like zinc, vitamin A and C, selenium and iron, garlic, Echinacea and Olive Leaf.
- Eat Moderately
Don’t overdo your food intake on the flight. With your body not operating at its optimum level, it could be difficult to digest food properly, plus, it will take energy away from other areas of your body trying to balance out the effects of the environment your in.
It’s also a good idea to stay clear of sugary drinks, alcohol and too much coffee. Instead, keep hydrated on water and coconut water (you’ll probably have to bring this with you).
- Don’t forget to Hydrate Your Skin
Carry water in a spray bottle to spray on your face, or use essential oils for hydrating your skin like geranium, rose, sweet orange and lemon. Alone or in combination, 10 drops in some water should do the trick.
Don’t forget your nasal mucous membranes can also dry out. Take a saline solution to spray inside your nose for relief.
Preparation is the key to ensure you arrive at your destination as relaxed and healthy as possible. Most importantly, if you have any health concerns, make sure you visit your GP in plenty of time before you fly. There’s nothing worse than developing an illness a few days before you’re due to depart.
