Blog

All things sailing

image

Say Goodbye to Sea Sickness

By Mysailing 15.07.2023

Are you tired of missing out on the beauty of the open sea due to that dreaded feeling of feeling sea sick? Picture this: you're on a dream vacation, sailing around the beautiful Mediterranean Sea  and suddenly, the joy of the journey is overshadowed by sea sickness. Sound familiar?

 

We understand that the mere thought of feeling nauseous while sailing can put a damper on your travel plans. What causes Seasickness? Sea sickness, also known as motion sickness or kinetosis, is a common condition that occurs when the brain receives mixed signals from the inner ears, eyes, and other sensory receptors. This sensory mismatch can lead to symptoms like nausea, dizziness, sweating, and vomiting, making any boat or ship journey a miserable experience.Sea sickness can ruin the joy of being on the open sea, but there are effective remedies available.

 

Prevention Tips for Sea Sickness

 

If you're planning a boat trip or a cruise and want to enjoy every moment of it without being plagued by sea sickness, we've got you covered. Here are some effective prevention tips that can help you avoid the discomfort of motion sickness at sea.

 

1. Choose the Right Spot on the Vessel

When onboard, try to find a spot that minimizes your exposure to motion. The middle of the vessel tends to experience less movement compared to the front or back. Additionally, being on an upper deck can help reduce the sensation of swaying.

2. Get Fresh Air

Ventilation is key when it comes to preventing sea sickness. Stay in well-ventilated areas, and if possible, spend time on deck where you can feel the breeze and take in the fresh air. This helps your body adjust to the motions of the vessel and can alleviate symptoms.

3. Keep Your Eyes on the Horizon

Focusing your gaze on a fixed point in the distance, such as the horizon, can help stabilize your visual senses and provide a reference point for your body's balance. Avoid excessive screen time or reading, as this can disrupt the harmony between your visual and vestibular systems.

4. Take Deep Breaths and Relax

Controlling your breathing and staying calm can have a positive impact on preventing motion sickness. Practice deep breathing techniques to relax your body and mind. You can also try meditation or listen to soothing music to help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

5. Eat Lightly and Avoid Heavy Meals

Before setting sail, it's important to watch what you eat. Opt for light, easily digestible meals that won't burden your stomach. Greasy, spicy, or heavy foods can exacerbate feelings of queasiness. It's also advisable to steer clear of alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration and worsen symptoms.

6. Avoid Reading.

Reading can make potential seasick symptoms worse. Focusing your eyes on the words on a print or screen can magnify the discrepancy between what your ears are sensing and your eyes are seeing.

7. Consider Medication

If you've tried various preventive measures without success, you may want to discuss the option of medication with your healthcare provider. Over-the-counter medications like antihistamines or ginger.

 

Natural Remedies for Sea Sickness

 

If you're prone to sea sickness or just want to explore natural alternatives to traditional medications, these remedies can help alleviate the symptoms and make your sea voyage more enjoyable. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any new remedies, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.

1. Ginger

Ginger has long been hailed as a natural remedy for various types of nausea, including sea sickness. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm the stomach and ease feelings of queasiness. You can consume ginger in various forms, such as ginger tea, ginger candies or chews, or even as fresh ginger slices.

2. Peppermint

Peppermint is another herb known for its soothing effects on the stomach. It contains menthol, which can help relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and reduce nausea. Sip on peppermint tea or chew on some peppermint leaves to ease sea sickness symptoms.

3. Acupressure wristbands

Acupressure wristbands work on the principle of stimulating specific pressure points in your wrists that are believed to alleviate nausea and vomiting. These wristbands apply gentle pressure on the Nei Guan point, which can help relieve motion sickness symptoms. Simply wear these bands prior to your journey and keep them on throughout to experience their benefits.

4. Mint and lemon aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can be an effective way to combat sea sickness. The refreshing scents of mint and lemon have been shown to have uplifting and soothing effects on the mind and body. Carry a small vial of mint or lemon essential oil with you and inhale the aroma whenever you start feeling queasy.

5. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of sea sickness. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, to stay hydrated throughout your journey. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration and aggravate nausea.

6. Fresh air and focus on the horizon

Being in a well-ventilated area and looking at a stable object in the distance, such as the horizon, can help alleviate symptoms of sea sickness. Fresh air can promote a sense of calmness, while focusing on a fixed point can help reorient.

 

In conclusion, sea sickness can put a damper on your travel plans, but by implementing these essential remedies, you can say goodbye to that dreaded feeling. From ginger to acupressure bands, these tried and tested solutions are backed by experts in the field. Remember to stay hydrated, maintain a steady gaze on the horizon, and avoid heavy meals before your voyage. With a little preparation and these remedies, you'll be able to fully enjoy your time on the high seas. If you're ready to sail away without the fear of sea sickness, start implementing these remedies today. Enjoy your sailing charter.

more
image

Body care when chartering - preventing insects and sunburn

By Mysailing 29.05.2023

You have left the marina for your sailing holiday, a cooling breeze fills your sails as the afternoon sun shines down on your first anchorage. As the heat of the day increases, you pass the sunscreen around and slather each other to protect skin that probably has not seen proper sun for a while.
You drop anchor for lunch and a swim. You are eager to soak up the sun's rays and get a hefty dose of vitamin D. As the sun sets, you notice that your skin is red and getting redder by the minute. You forgot to reapply sunscreen and now you are starting to glow.
Skin care is important before, during and after UV exposure
Did you know that exposure to UVA and UVB radiation slowly changes your skin cells, long after you have gone into the shade? Be prepared and pack plenty of aftersun and moisturiser to prevent tight skin and peeling.

Be prepared for mosquito bites
Mosquitoes and other insects are not usually a problem when you are anchored aboard a boat. So it's safe to say that on board it's not too difficult to keep distance between you and the flying pests. In the evening on land, however, it can be a different story.
Mosquitoes are all over the world and there are many different species, some of which are more unpleasant than others. Be prepared and prevent your sailing holiday from being ruined. Here is a natural recipe for mosquito repellent
- 20 drops of lemongrass
- 20 drops of citronella
- 5 drops tea tree
- 10 drops rosemary
- 1 ½ ounces or 3 tablespoons of a carrier oil
This essential oil repellent is also good for applying to bites to soothe them.

Have fun sailing without sunburn and bugs!

more