Understanding Jet Lag
Jet lag is what happens when your body’s internal clock (called circadian rhythm) gets thrown off after traveling across time zones. Your body is used to doing things like sleeping, waking up, eating, and producing hormones at specific times based on your home time zone. When you suddenly switch time zones (especially when flying east or west), your body can’t adjust in an instant.
This mismatch between your internal timing and the local time can cause symptoms like:
- Trouble sleeping or staying awake (insomnia or fatigue)
- Headaches
- Digestive issues
- Mood changes or irritability
- Brain fog or trouble focusing
- General feeling of feeling “weird” or being disoriented
Jet lag can hit harder if you’re crossing several time zones in a short period, flying overnight, or not getting much sleep during the trip. It tends to be more noticeable when traveling east (losing hours) than west (gaining time).
Around 50% of travelers report feeling jet lag after flying. For some, it lasts just a day or two, while others might feel off for more.
While your body will eventually adjust on its own, there are ways to speed up the process – like getting sunlight at the correct times, staying hydrated, and in some cases, using treatments like acupuncture for jet lag to help “reset” your rhythm and reduce symptoms.
How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture helps the body adjust to jet lag by affecting the nervous system. When tiny needles are placed at specific acupuncture points for jet lag on the body, they send signals to the brain and spinal cord. This activates the parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and reset” part of the body), which helps calm you down and rebalance internal systems disrupted by travel.
It also improves blood circulation, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach your tissues and brain, which can help clear out inflammation and reduce fatigue. Acupuncture can stimulate melatonin production and regulate sleep cycles, which is important when your body’s internal clock is off.
The Benefits of Acupuncture for Jet Lag
- Better Sleep. Acupuncture for jet lag helps your body relax and fall into a better sleep rhythm, even after crossing time zones.
- More Energy. It helps fight off that tiring feeling by boosting blood flow and calming stress.
- Less Stress and Mood Changes. If you feel tense, anxious, or cranky after flying, acupuncture helps you feel calmer.
- Helps Your Stomach Settle. Jet lag can mess with your digestion. Acupuncture can help get things moving and ease stomach trouble.
- Clears Brain Fog. It helps your brain feel more awake and focused, so you’re not walking around dazed.
Who Should Consider Acupuncture for Jet Lag?
Anyone dealing with symptoms like brain fog, exhaustion, or trouble sleeping after a long flight might want to give acupuncture a try. It’s especially helpful for people who travel often, struggle to adjust to new time zones, or just want a natural way to feel better faster.
It’s safe for most people, but there are a few exceptions, like those with certain health conditions or bleeding disorders. A licensed acupuncture practitioner will let you know if it’s right for you.
Beyond helping with jet lag, acupuncture also helps with overall health. It can improve your sleep, reduce stress, and leave you feeling calmer, both during travel and after.
Conclusion: Reclaim Your Energy and Sleep with Acupuncture
Jet lag can leave you feeling drained, foggy, and just wrong. But you don’t have to go through it on your own. Acupuncture offers a gentle, natural way to help your body. It’s also a great support for overall wellness, with extra benefits like less stress and better digestion. Many travelers also find relief from related issues, thanks to treatments like cupping, herbal medicine, acupuncture for anxiety, and acupuncture for insomnia.
If you’re looking for help with jet lag and more, Pulse Acupuncture has locations in Clifton, NJ and Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Marina Doktorman, L.Ac., and her team provide safe, personalized acupuncture in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, to help you feel better wherever you land, and any time beyond.
