Jet Lag and Ayurveda
Jetlag is considered a problem of agni in Ayurveda (digestive fire). If we get hungry on time, sleep on time, and have a bowel movement on time, then agni is probably okay. But traveling disrupts our schedule. Time changes disrupt our biological clock and internal rhythms. Air conditioned planes and altitude increase dryness. Thus, traveling increases vata and constipation.
Eating on the Plane
1) Citrus fruits especially limes. Sour taste keeps the colon hydrated and flowing.
2) Ask for orange juice when the flight attendant brings juices but not during meals.
3) Ask for wine with your meals on international flights. 3 tablespoons of wine increases agni.
4) Simple light foods. No fatty, heavy difficult to digest foods. Vata pacifying diet.
5) Salty foods should be avoided; they increase swelling and fluid retention.
6) Plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration during long flights with air conditioning.
7) Peanuts are heavy, drying, hard to digest, salty and increase vata. Avoid them!
Exercises on the Plane
1) Basic stretching and massage every 3 hours while flying.
2) Focus on kidneys, solar plexus, ankle swelling.
3) To stay grounded, use root lock and direct attention to sacrum and back body.
For herbal regimen and more information about how to stay grounded and healthy while traveling, contact Joseph!