8 Ways to Avoid Jet Lag Based on Flight Direction

4. Strategies for Westward Travel: Delayed Sleep Onset

For westward travel, consider delaying your sleep onset a few days before departure. This means going to bed and waking up later than usual, which can help extend your body’s natural day to align with the new time zone. Evening exposure to light can be beneficial in this case, as it helps delay the release of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. By gradually adjusting your schedule, you can ease the transition and reduce the impact of jet lag upon arrival, allowing you to enjoy your destination more fully.