Tips for Reducing Work Travel Fatigue
Do you jet around frequently for your career? If so, you know what it’s like to step off a long distance flight feeling exhausted. Maybe you have a work meeting in just a few hours, but you’d rather have a meeting with your hotel pillow.
Work travel fatigue can wear you out both physically and psychologically. The constant disruptions to your routine and the loss of your regular sleep cycles can leave you stressed, anxious, and completely bushed.
But did you know that there are steps you can take to reduce travel fatigue? Let’s go over some top recommendations.
Proactively Fight Jet Lag
Jet lag happens when traveling between time zones throws off your internal clock, disrupting your circadian rhythms.
The CDC writes, “Jet lag can affect your mood, your ability to concentrate, and your physical and mental performance. If you are expected to begin work immediately after arrival, jet lag can have potentially negative consequences.”
So, what can you do about jet lag? American Express quotes Technologies for American Express Global Business Travel VP, frequent traveler Evan Konwiser, as saying, “Stay hydrated and don’t drink too much alcohol … use caffeine strategically.” He adds, “Use light, especially sunlight, to wake you up and keep you up.”
Keep Up Healthy Habits
Another reason we often feel extra fatigue during travel is because we are not keeping up with the healthy habits we have established for our daily lives at home.
Because it is more difficult than usual to get a full night of sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise, we often abandon the attempt.
But all of these healthy habits help you to maintain your energy levels and focus throughout the day.
So, try and fit in some short exercise sessions, even if they are only micro-workouts. If you can, bring along some of your own healthy snacks. Don’t overindulge in alcohol, and avoid late nights out.
Try Not to Rush
Another way you can combat fatigue while traveling is to try and reduce your stress. One way you can do that is to give yourself a bit of extra time.
Leave a few minutes early on your way to a meeting or as you head to the airport. Plan ahead for possible mishaps. Just by giving yourself a bit of extra wiggle room, you can feel significantly less rushed and frantic.
Mind Your Sleep Posture on Airplanes and Trains
The CDC recommends that you consider sleeping on your flights if it helps you avoid jet lag. But there is no denying that airline and train seats are the furthest thing from ergonomic when it comes to maintaining a healthy sleep posture.
Just how important is sleeping posture? Berkeley Wellness points out that a poor posture can worsen problems like neck pain, acid reflux and sleep apnea. All of these can take a significant toll on your physical and mental well-being.
What can go a long way toward alleviating these issues is to bring along a travel pillow gel product like the Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Travel Neck Pillow. Featuring gel-infused and ventilated memory foam, this contoured pillow provides the comfortable ergonomic support you need for restful, restorative sleep in any setting.
Regular Travel for Work Doesn’t Have to Deplete Your Energy
There is no denying that traveling often for work can be fatiguing. But with practice and the right supplies, you can learn to adapt rapidly to time changes, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and sleep deeply even on trains and airplanes. With a few simple adjustments, you can walk into your next meeting abroad with a spring in your step and a clear, focused mind.