|
The Traversing Time Zones Sleep
Disorder.
Whether you fly, ride by rail, or travel by car, your body’s
natural biological clock will need adjustment as you cross one of more time
zones. When traveling to a different time zone, our body’s biological clock
remains on its usual schedule for at least a day or more. So, if we arrive at
our destination time zone in the middle of the afternoon, we want to stay awake,
even though our body’s clock is now at 9 p.m.
Some tips for overcoming “jet lag” –
- Try to pick a flight that has you arriving in early evening. Stay up until
10 p.m. local time and arise at your regular time the next day.
- Anticipate time changes by getting up and going to bed earlier (when
headed eastward) or later (when headed westward).
- When you depart, change your watch to the time zone of your
destination.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine four hours before bedtime. As stimulants, they
prevent sleep.
- Try to get outside in the sunlight. Daylight helps to regulate your
biological clock.
Credit: www.sleepfoundation.org
|
