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Why It’s Important To Move On A Long-Haul Flight
I know you might feel lazy to move, but don’t chance it.
Don’t let your flight turn into a trip to the ER.
I recently took a long-haul flight to Asia. We are talking around 14 hours straight, sitting on the plane. You know how you feel stiff after sitting all day at work? That’s about 8 hours long or more. Think of sitting 14 hours without moving! Your body is going to cry for help.
Aside from feeling all stiff and achy, it’s actually really important to move and walk during a long-haul flight. If you sit for such a long period of time, you may develop a condition called Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). I’m not a medical expert, but I know that DVT can develop if you don’t move for an extended period of time. Blood clots form in your legs and potentially travel to your lungs. If this happens, you can develop another condition called a Pulmonary Embolism. The blood clots travel to your lungs and this is a dangerous condition that requires immediate medical attention.
During such a long flight, I make sure to move often. Yes, I know it’s a pain to get up ~ especially if you’re sitting in the window seat. Still, it’s something you have to do. I’d rather go through the inconvenience than trigger an emergency landing and a trip to the ER.
Here are some ways you can make sure to keep moving on the plane.
- Stretch in your seat
- Try to book an aisle seat so you can stretch your legs if the aisle is clear
- Make trips to the washroom — you have to make sure to freshen up and keep hydrated anyways
- Stand in the back of the plane and stretch
- Stand or walk up and down the aisle
I know it’s really not ideal. The plane is only so big and room is limited. But sitting and not moving is really hard on your body. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, it’s the same. It’s mandatory. Plus, moving around will help pass the time a little faster too.
Do you have a long-haul flight coming up? How do you intend to let your body move around on the plane? Please share your thoughts with me in the comments below! I would love to read it!
Until next time..hope you enjoyed this story!
Travel, eat, and live with intention and happiness ~ Linda
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