Tips To Enjoy The Flight

Whether on a short or long-haul journey, flying can be a pleasant experience if you are well-prepared. Here are some steps to ensure you have a safe, smooth and comfortable flight:

SHOULDER LIFTS
Gently lift your right shoulder and lower the left one simultaneously. Repeat the movement five times by alternating both shoulders.

KNEE LIFTS

Lift knee up toward your chest and hold the position for 10 seconds. Gently lower knee and repeat with the other leg. Repeat the exercise as desired.

FOOT PUMPS
Keeping both heels on the floor, point feet upwards as high as you can. Return feet to earlier position.Then, lift heels while keeping the balls of your feet on the floor.Repeat the exercise as desired.

BEAT THE LAG
To counter the effects of jetlag, get as much sleep as possible when flying west to east. When flying in the reverse direction, try and stay awake as much as you can.

PREVENT DEHIDRATION
Keep yourself hydrated during your flight. Airplane cabins are extremely dry and dehydration can occur easily. Drink lots of water and continue drinking water once you reach your destination. Try to minimise consumption of alcohol or caffeine onboard; both are diuretics, which can further dehydrate.

POPPING EARS
Changes in air pressure or altitude cause our ears to ‘pop’ and  sometimes ache during take-offs and landings. For a comfortable flying experience, suck on sweets or mimic the act of chewing and swallowing
if you do not have any with you. This will relieve the discomfort and help stabilise the pressure in the ear canals. Pacifiers will work just as well for toddlers and, if you have a cold, use a nasal decongestant to clear your nasal passage and alleviate the ache.

 

BE AWARE OF DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS
DVT can occur when a blood clot forms in the large veins of the legs or arms, partially or completely blocking blood circulation. Sitting still and moving very little during long flights may lead to the occurrence of DVT.If youare flying long-distance, ensure you perform in-flight exercises such as those listed here as a precaution against developing DVT. When possible and permissible, stretch your legs and walk along the aisle. Be aware of early symptoms such as pain or swelling in the legs, which can happen even after you disembark. Seek medical treatment immediately if this occurs

Tips from 3Sixty Magazine, June 2012