Four natural tips to combat motion sickness

Motion sickness , also called motion sickness, can turn your travels into a nightmarish adventure. Fortunately, there are natural alternatives to traditional medications that can help you fight this disease. In this article, we'll share four natural tips to relieve the symptoms of motion sickness and help you fully enjoy your travels.

Tip 1: Breathe deeply to calm nausea

Motion sickness , known scientifically as "kinetosis", is a common condition that can cause unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, dizziness and vomiting. It is usually caused by confusion in the brain when the movements you feel are different from the movements you see.

One of the best strategies is to practice deep, controlled breathing . By taking deep breaths, holding your breath for a few moments, then exhaling slowly, you can help regulate your nervous system and reduce feelings of nausea. The key is to focus on your breathing and make it as even as possible.

Here are some essential steps to follow:

1. Take a deep breath through your nose, filling your lungs with air for about 4 to 5 seconds.
2. Hold your breath for about 7 seconds.
3. Exhale slowly through your mouth for about 8 seconds.
4. Repeat this cycle as many times as necessary to relieve your symptoms.

Additionally, you can consider closing your eyes during deep breathing. This can help reduce sensory confusion that contributes to motion sickness symptoms.

Remember that it is important to practice this technique safely. Don't do this if you're driving, for example.

Tip 2: Use soothing essential oils

Using essential oils is a gentle, natural method to relieve the symptoms of motion sickness. Certain oils, such as peppermint and ginger, are known for their anti-nausea properties. They can be applied topically, inhaled or even ingested, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations.

Here is a simple method for using essential oils :

1. Place a few drops of essential oil of your choice on a handkerchief or piece of cloth.
2. Gently inhale the aroma for a few minutes.
3. If you prefer, you can also dilute the oil with a carrier oil and apply it to your wrists, behind the ears, or on your neck.

Remember to always do a skin test before applying any essential oil to the skin. Some people may be sensitive or allergic to certain oils. In addition, certain essential oils are not recommended for children and pregnant women. You must therefore always ensure that you follow the instructions and precautions for use .

Tip 3: Eat light and avoid fatty foods

There's nothing worse than having a full stomach on a long trip. It can be tempting to gorge on snacks and fatty foods before hitting the road, but it's best to resist it.

Eating fatty foods before getting into a vehicle can make the body sluggish and increase feelings of motion sickness . Oils, fried foods, and refined foods put extra strain on your digestive system, which can increase feelings of nausea and malaise.

Instead, opt for foods that are light and easy to digest. Fresh fruits and vegetables are a great option, as well as whole grains and lean proteins. Not only are these foods less likely to make you sick, but they can also provide the energy your body needs to manage motion sickness. Here is a list of examples:

• Fresh fruit salad
• Whole grains like oats or quinoa
• Steamed vegetables
• Grilled fish or skinless chicken

Try to maintain sufficient hydration , water is your best ally. Hydration helps maintain a healthy balance in the digestive system and can help relieve symptoms of motion sickness. However, avoid carbonated or very sugary drinks which can upset your stomach.

Take the time to pay attention to the signals your body is sending you. If you feel nauseous or dizzy, it may be a sign that you need to change your diet or take other steps to control your motion sickness .

Tip 4: Stimulate acupressure points

Before understanding how it works, let's give a brief reminder: acupressure is a technique known for millennia and which is based on the stimulation of specific points of the human body. It is often associated with acupuncture, but differs in that it does not use needles and can be performed yourself.

To alleviate motion sickness, a particular point, known as P6 or Nei Guan in Chinese, is often recommended. This point is located three fingers below the wrist, on the inner forearm. Gently massaging it can help reduce nausea and other symptoms associated with motion sickness.

Here's how you can do it:

1. Position your hand so that the thumb is facing you.
2. Locate point P6 which is three fingers below the start of the wrist on the inner forearm.
3. Apply moderate pressure to this point with your thumb.
4. Use a gentle circular motion for about 5-6 seconds, then release.
5. Repeat the operation as often as necessary.

No matter the nature of the trip, this acupressure technique can be a valuable asset to add to your arsenal against motion sickness . As always, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new self-care health practice.

Conclusion

Motion sickness can be a real constraint when traveling. Each person is unique, if one technique doesn't work for you, don't hesitate to try others. Above all, it's about breathing deeply when discomfort appears, surrounding yourself with soothing essential oils , eating light before and during the journey, and stimulating acupressure points to soothe your nervous system.