Jet Lag

Depending upon where you are coming from, one of the first adjustments you will have to face after your arrival in the United States is "jet lag." Jet lag is the physical shock of your body adjusting to a new time zone. Its intensity will depend upon how many time zones you have crossed during your travel to the United States. While your body is adjusting to a new daily rhythm, you may experience headaches, disorientation, sleeplessness, or sleepiness. Many people find that for every hour of time difference, it takes one day to completely overcome the effects of jet lag. However, you may find that you are through the worst of it in about half that time. After this period of adjustment, you should be able to function normally and follow a regular daily schedule.

There are a number of things you can do to help yourself through the transition. Attempt, as much as possible, to follow the normal eating and sleeping patterns of your new time zone. Resist taking naps in the middle of the day since it will make it more difficult to sleep at night and will only serve to prolong your jet lag. Instead, take a walk, exercise, or plan activities with friends during the day when you find you are tired. Exposure to sunlight or other light during the day can also help your body's clock to reset. Because of jet lag, it is recommended that you arrive in the United States at least a few days before the start of work/classes to permit your body to get adapted to a new time zone.


Source: Education USA