Health & Fitness Tips
Start an exercise regimen several weeks before your trip.
Carrying suitcases, prolonged sitting or standing, unfamiliar
beds and other activities that you’re not accustomed
to can aggravate aches and pains. Build your flexibility and
stamina gradually – BEFORE you leave. Walking and stretching
exercises will help you get ready. You’ll probably find
it so enjoyable that it will become part of your lifestyle.
Try to get as much sleep as possible before you leave.
Take sunglasses that deflect 100% of ultraviolet rays. You
also may want to take eye drops for long flights, bright days,
and in hot/dry environments.
Be sure you take comfortable shoes that are well-worn. Do
NOT buy new shoes the day before your trip. Look for a good
fit and firm arch support and wear your shoes for a few weeks
before you leave to be sure that they’re comfortable
and don’t cause blisters or any other discomfort.
On the Plane
Your airline flight is often the most tiring part of your
trip, and it can leave you feeling stiff and disoriented. Here
are a few suggestions to help you feel much better when you
arrive at your destination.
Move around as much as possible. Walk the
aisles frequently. Movement minimizes swollen feet and ankles.
Also, while you’re
sitting, get your feet up on a small travel bag to keep the
edge of the seat from cutting off the circulation in your legs.
Avoid falling asleep with your head cocked to one side, and
regularly exercise your neck muscles. Roll your head around
in circles and from side to side and from front to back slowly.
Loosen your shoulder muscles. Exercise your feet and hands.
As often as you think about it, move the muscles in some part
of your body to keep from getting stiff.
Put a cushion behind the small of your back. Use the airline
cushion, or even better, bring your own small cushion.
Drink plenty of water. It is good to drink at least 4 ounces
of water an hour. Avoid alcohol because it causes dehydration.
Also, to counter the effect of the dry air on the airplane,
use a moisturizer on your face and hands. Or spray your face
with water from an atomizer bottle.
If you suffer from earaches while flying, try taking an antihistamine
or decongestant about 30-45 minutes before take-off. Just before
takeoff, “pop” your ears by holding your nose shut,
closing your mouth, and attempting to blow air through your
nostrils gently. This helps to clear the Eustachian tube, which
often becomes swollen and blocked when cabin pressure changes.
While in flight you should swallow frequently, chew gum or
candy, and “pop” your ears frequently when the
pressure builds. It’s especially important to take these
precautions if you feel a cold coming on – if the tubes
are blocked, fluids can become trapped, causing painful ear
infections.
