Anti-jet-lag:

To resynchronize our body clock by promoting the production of melatonin, the master hormone of our internal clock, physician and acupuncturist Nadia Volf recommends massaging the “Hundred Convergences” point at the top of the skull. To ease falling asleep, she also suggests massaging the “Kunlun Mountains” point, located in the hollow between the Achilles tendon and the lower fibula. Moreover, a recent British study found that fasting throughout your flight (whilst remembering to hydrate) allows our body to adapt more quickly to new time zones. You can also take melatonin as a food supplement.

Stop stressing:

To be used as a prevention or cure to soothe emotional shock, the “rescue remedy”, also called “emergency mixture”, (a cocktail of five Dr. Bach flower essences) exists in liquid form (4 drops), in spray form (2 squirts) or in granules (2 or 3 granules), which should be placed or sprayed directly under the tongue. Repeat after 15 minutes if necessary.

Quick perk-me-up:

Bring dried fruits (apricots, raisins, figs, prunes …) “Very rich in potassium, they provide energy and stabilise the heartbeat,” says Nadia Volf, pointing out that the heat of summer weakens the cardiovascular system. To stimulate your vital energy, massage the “Tiger’s Mouth”, located between the index and middle fingers of each hand, for a few minutes in the day.

Multi-functional:

Peppermint essential oil can do pretty much everything. Getting giddy in transport? Sniffs two drops poured on a handkerchief and stop the nausea! Getting a headache? Rub a drop on your forehead and temples! Against a bout of fatigue, dip a toothpick in the bottle cap to pick up a tiny bit of oil, then place it on the back of his hand and lick. This should be avoided for young children and during pregnancy.

Good circulation:

“The day before, itself, and after a long flight or a long journey by car, take ginkgo biloba (which can be found in capsules at the pharmacy). This ventonic reduces circulatory problems,” says Nadia Volf. Opt for formulas based on the extract of ginkgo leaves. And during the journey, to stimulate circulation, massage the “Three-yin Intersection” point, located on the inner side of each calf, three to four finger widths above the medial malleolus. In addition, do not forget to wear your stockings!

Refresh:

Need a little boost? Mix rose and peppermint herbal distillate in equal parts in a spray bottle, and spray every once in a while around you. Pleasant and unobtrusive.

Beating the boredom:

Nothing beats a (good) book to let the hours fly while you wait, completely stress-free.

Preventing motion sickness:

Upon boarding and whilst travelling, Nadia Volf recommends massaging the “Entry/Exit” point.  It is located on the inner side of the forearm, three finger widths above the wrist crease, between the prominent tendons. In the case of nausea, nibble on candied ginger.

Digestive anti-stressant:

Occasionally used externally, the essential oil of tropical basil (Ocimum basilicum ssp basilicum) is great for relaxing, and also the digestive tract. Prepare in advance by diluting 5 drops of essential oil with 10 ml of olive oil in a vial. Massage gently onto the stomach in a clockwise direction, or on aches to soothe pains and cramps. Avoid use in children under 7 years, and during pregnancy.

Earache?

A stewardess trick: soak a handkerchief with two or three drops of Olbas oil (kayu putih), a mixture of decongestant essential oils. The smell relieves the air passages and pressure in the ears, so it is useful to sniff during take-off and landing. The mixture is powerful, though, so avoid putting it in direct contact with the skin.