How to feel better after a long flight
Tight seats, dry air and jet lag leave you tired. What to do before, during and after.
Long flights are tiring. You sit still for hours, the air is dry, you sleep badly, and you may land in a new time zone. A little planning helps a lot.
What to do, and when
| When | What helps |
|---|---|
| Before you fly | Sleep well, pack a water bottle, wear loose clothes |
| On the plane | Drink water, have less tea, coffee and alcohol, walk every hour or two |
| In your seat | Turn your ankles, move your feet, roll your shoulders |
| After you land | Get some daylight, eat at local meal times, stay up until bedtime |
| The next day | Move gently, drink water, rest your muscles |
Getting over jet lag
Jet lag happens because your body clock is still on the old time. Daylight helps reset it, so go outside on your first morning. Avoid long naps. Eat your meals at local times.
Why you feel so stiff
A small seat keeps your hips bent and your legs still for hours. Your neck bends when you doze. So many people feel worse the day after a flight. A gentle Swedish massage can help loosen the stiffness.
Watch your legs
If one leg gets painful, swollen, red or warm during or after a flight, see a doctor quickly. If you have had blood clots before, ask your doctor before you fly.
Frequently asked questions
How do I recover from a long flight?
Drink water, move often, get daylight and keep to local times.
How can I reduce jet lag?
Go out in daylight, avoid long naps and eat at local times.
Is a massage good after a flight?
Yes. A gentle massage can ease the stiffness from sitting.
What exercises can I do on a plane?
Ankle circles, foot moves, shoulder rolls and short walks.
