Travelling can be a fun and exciting adventure. But getting to your destination feeling sore and exhausted is never fun. Reduce body pain caused by a long flight with these simple tips.
Bring your own neck pillow and blanket
It is all too common for airlines to either charge for blankets and pillows or for them to not have enough to go around. This can bring great stress to your body when your neck can not find a comfortable position and your muscles tense up from cold. And even when you are fortunate enough to get your very own plastic-wrapped sleeping devices, they are often less than desirable comforts. The blankets are thin and scratchy and the pillows are far too small. Instead of relying on in-flight accomodations, pack your own pillow and blanket. Roll your blanket up as tightly as possible and invest in a collapsible neck pillow that can both easily fit in your carry-on. It’s worth lugging the extra weight around the airport when it means you might actually catch a few hours of shut-eye.
Pack earplugs and an eyemask
The easiest way to pass the time on a plane and give your body a chance to recuperate is by falling asleep. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of closing your eyes and opening them to find that you are beginning the descent towards your destination. But accomplishing that task can be incredibly difficult when there’s a screaming baby behind you or your neighbour is shining his reading light in your eyes. To make things a little easier, consider tucking earplugs and an eyemask into your carry-on so you can create your own little world in which to fall asleep.
Get up regularly
A flight can quickly become uncomfortable for your body if you remain immobile for too long. Of course you don’t want to be a bother to the flight attendants — but don’t be afraid to look for those moments where you can stand up and stretch your legs. If the “fasten your seatbelts” sign is off and flight attendants aren’t busy serving people — seize the opportunity to do a quick walk up and down the aisles. This will get your blood circulating and help you shake out the tension.
Switch positions often
It’s easy once you find a sitting position you are comfortable in to stay that way for the entire flight. But doing so could unintentionally put pressure on certain joints and muscles that can leave you feeling sore for hours or days afterwards. Ensure you don’t cause your body unneccessary pain by switching positions as often as is comfortable for you.
Stretch
If you aren’t able to get up and move around, stretching is a good way to keep your body relaxed and get your blood circulating. Flex and point your ankles, roll your neck to the front and to the sides and stretch your arms in all directions whenever you get a chance. Keep your body moving whenever possible and you are sure to enjoy a far more comfortable flight!
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