Stimulate these by massaging your foot firmly all over. The massage will also improve circulation. Taking sleeping pills is not recommended on aircraft because they have been linked to fatal blood clots. Resort to safer, more gentle means of inducing drowsiness - try a herbal tablet containing valerian, a natural relaxant. Using blindfolds, earplugs, neck rests and blow-up pillows also can improve the quality of sleep.
Ears can suffer badly during takeoff and landing.
EarPlanes, tested by U.S. pilots and recommended by doctors, are disposable filters that relieve clogging, popping and hearing loss. Another handy product is Noisebuster Extreme, a headphone system that blocks out the plane's irritating droning noise. Each pack contains 30 tablets, enough for about 40 hours of flying. In the United States, it's available in airports, hotels, pharmacies and travel and natural health stores. Do tell the cabin crew if the aircraft is stuffy, advises Ms. Fairechild.