Science-backed headphone trick I use on every flight to fight jet lag
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I still remember the first time I ever used noise-cancelling headphones on a flight.
The way that the constant drone of the engine noise just disappeared with the press of a tiny button - what a relief.
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Headphones are one thing I think helps with my jet lag after a flight. Getty
Ever since that first flight, I have never travelled without them. In fact, I wear them as long as I can on any flight, even if I'm not actually listening to any music or watching the in-flight entertainment system.
As long as the Active Noise Cancellation is turned on.
And I've found that this relatively simple tactic has reduced jet-lag symptoms for me significantly. That feeling of a pounding head isn't something I struggle with any more.
Indeed, it's been scientifically proven that noise-cancelling headphones can help us in many ways when travelling.
"After years of working with audio technology at the highest level, I've learned that what we hear, or don't hear, has a powerful effect on how we experience our surroundings," sound expert James Grifo, Owner and CEO of Audio Visual Nation, explains.
"This same principle applies when you're 35,000 feet in the air."
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I had worn headphones on every single flight. Getty
He explains how Active Noise Cancellation uses built-in microphones to detect external sounds, then generates sound waves that are the exact opposite, essentially cancelling out the noise before it reaches your ears.
The result is a dramatically quieter environment, even in the notoriously loud cabin of an aircraft.
When your auditory system isn't constantly processing engine noise and cabin sounds, your body can maintain a more relaxed state.
That, in turn, has psychological benefits as well. The steady drone of jet engines can create a subconscious sense of stress, especially when it intensifies during turbulence for example.
Headphones can even help reduce stress during a flight. Getty
Not only does noise cancelling benefit your feelings of jet lag once you land, but as James explains, it can help with motion sickness and turbulence stress as well.
"The trick is to switch on ANC before take-off, not after turbulence starts. Your body benefits most when it's in a calmer state from the beginning of the flight. I always activate it while still on the ground, and keep it on throughout the journey," he says.
"When you reduce the audio input with ANC, you're removing one major source of sensory conflict. This allows your brain to focus on stabilising your sense of balance without the added confusion of fluctuating noise levels."
"Even during significant turbulence, when you've eliminated that wall of engine noise, your body doesn't react as strongly to the movement. You're still aware of it, but it doesn't trigger that same anxious, uncomfortable response."
Anything to make flying more comfortable. Supplied
The strategy is even pilot-approved.
Captain Etika from Fiji Airways says noise-cancelling headphones are one thing he won't travel without.
"Even as a pilot who's used to aircraft sounds, proper rest matters, especially on long sectors," Etika tells 9Travel. "Whether it's blocking out cabin noise on a commute or unwinding at a hotel between flights, being able to create a quiet space anywhere is invaluable.
"Travel can be busy and overstimulating, so having that small pocket of calm makes all the difference."
If you haven't yet invested in a good pair of headphones, this might be your sign to do so.
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Supplied
