Jet Lag Is Real, Sis—Here’s How to Beat It Like a Pro
Let’s keep it all the way real—jet lag will try to snatch your joy and ruin that first day of vacation. You planned this trip, packed the cutest outfits, and touched down ready to slay… but your body said, “Nah, we still on East Coast time.”
Jet lag is that rude reminder that your internal clock didn’t catch the same flight. But don’t worry, Auntie—I got the 411 to help you adjust like the seasoned globe-trotter you are. Whether you're heading to Ghana, Dubai, or Tokyo, here’s how to fight the fatigue and show up fresh on day one.
🕰️ 1. Start Adjusting Before You Board
About 2–3 days before takeoff, start shifting your bedtime closer to the time zone you're traveling to. Going east? Hit the sheets earlier. Headed west? Stay up a little later. You’ll feel the difference when you land.
💧 2. Hydration = Your Secret Weapon
That dry cabin air is disrespectful to your skin and your energy. Skip the wine, limit the coffee, and sip water often throughout the flight. Bring a reusable water bottle and ask flight attendants to fill it up. Your body (and that melanin) will thank you.
😴 3. Sleep Smart on the Plane
If it’s nighttime at your destination, try to sleep—even if it’s just a nap. Use an eye mask, neck pillow, cozy socks, and your go-to chill playlist. Melatonin (consult your doc first!) or herbal sleep aids can also help gently reset your rhythm without grogginess.
🕶️ 4. Block That Light, Sis
Light affects your body clock more than you think. When it’s bedtime in your new city, wear sunglasses to avoid bright light—even at the airport. In the morning, get some sun to signal your body it’s time to wake up. Yes, a little sunlight is medicine!
🥗 5. Eat Light, Move Right
Heavy meals and sitting for hours? That’s a jet lag combo waiting to happen. Eat lighter, healthier meals the day before and during your flight. When you land, walk it out—even a short stroll can shake off that travel haze.
🛌 6. Don’t Nap Too Long After You Land
You’ll be tempted to collapse into the nearest bed—and that’s fine. But keep that nap under 90 minutes or push through until the local bedtime if you can. Long naps confuse your body and delay recovery.
🧖🏾♀️ 7. Treat Yo’ Self (to Recovery)
Give yourself grace. Book a massage, soak in a warm bath, or sip herbal tea your first night. Let your body decompress from the flight so your real adventure can begin the next day—refreshed, radiant, and ready.
Jet lag might be real—but so is your grown woman game. When you plan like a pro and treat your body with care, you’ll be skipping through customs, camera-ready, and glowing on Day One.
So, the next time someone says, “You don’t look tired at all after that long flight,” just smile and say, “Thank you, Auntie had a plan.”