Jet lag: a necessary scientific introduction

The term jet lag refers to the set of physical and mental symptoms that appear when we quickly cross multiple time zones. Our bodies are regulated by a very precise internal clock, the circadian rhythm, which coordinates sleep and wakefulness, hormone secretion, digestion, body temperature, and energy levels. This biological rhythm is mainly synchronized with the natural alternation of light and darkness.

When we change time zones in a matter of hours, our external clock—the one we set on our wrist or phone—changes suddenly, while our internal clock remains “behind” or “ahead.” It is as if the body continues to live in the place of departure, while the mind has already arrived at its destination. This leads to insomnia, fatigue, digestive problems, irritability, mental confusion, or a general feeling of sluggishness. From a scientific point of view, jet lag is therefore a temporary misalignment between internal biological time and external solar time.

Time zones as an experience of time

The time zone is not just a technical convention: it represents the way in which human beings relate to the movement of the Sun around the Earth. Moving eastward means “anticipating” dawn and day, while moving westward means artificially “extending” evening and night. Even without any astrological knowledge, it is clear that these two directions have different effects on the body and psyche. And this is precisely where Vedic astrology offers a surprisingly refined interpretation.

Cardinal directions and planets in Vedic astrology

According to Vedic Astrology and Vāstu Śāstra, space is not neutral. Each cardinal direction is animated by a specific energetic quality and planetary correspondence. North and South are linked to Mercury and Mars respectively: these are directions that generally do not involve major time zone changes and do not drastically alter the biological rhythm. The North favors mental movement, commerce, business, and communication. The South brings with it the heat and intensity of Mars, action, strength, and often warmer and more dynamic climates.

The real impact on jet lag, however, emerges when we move along the east–west axis, because here we enter directly into relation with solar time.

East: the Sun, the rhythm, and the fire of life

The east is ruled by the Sun. It is the direction of sunrise, the beginning of the day, the awakening of life. From an astrological point of view, the Sun represents rhythm, vitality, health, the ability to adapt and radiate energy. In Ayurveda, it is closely connected to Agni, the digestive and transformative fire, and to the principle of Pitta: heat, activity, metabolism, clarity.

When we travel eastward, we are symbolically “going towards the sun.” Even if we lose hours of sleep, the body tends to reactivate more easily because the early morning light stimulates the reset of the circadian rhythm. It is no coincidence that when traveling eastward, it is recommended to expose yourself to natural light, stay active, walk, move your body, and breathe fresh air. Dynamic yogic practices, such as Sun Salutation, help the body realign more quickly to the new rhythm.

West: Saturn, slow time, and the need for rest

The west is ruled by Saturn. It is the direction of sunset, of the fading of light, of the return to inner life. In Vedic astrology, Saturn represents Vāyu, the element of air: dryness, fatigue, dispersion, but also introspection, solitude, slowing down, and maturation. It is the planet of time that weighs heavily, of fatigue that demands respect, of the limits of the body.

When traveling westward, jet lag tends to be more noticeable. The body is forced to stay awake when biologically it would be ready to sleep, and this triggers a feeling of heaviness, apathy, or melancholy. Saturn does not like to be forced: it demands listening, gradualness, and respect for timing. For this reason, after a trip westward, the wisest advice is to slow down, rest, practice deep breathing, pranayama, and allow yourself silence and breaks. It is time not to expect too much from yourself.

A project born from a trip to India

I have just returned from a trip to India, which was incredibly spiritual and full of realizations, which I will tell you about later. Among these, an astrological reflection on jet lag became particularly clear. As we move around the planet Earth, we are not just traveling miles: according to Vedic Astrology and Vāstu, we are activating specific planetary energies.

Traveling to India from Italy means traveling eastward on the way there and westward on the way back. Surprisingly, jet lag is less noticeable on the way there. The sun helps the body quickly adjust to a new rhythm, especially if we cooperate by staying active, walking, exposing ourselves to light, and honoring the vital fire.

On the return journey, however, the westward direction and Saturn make themselves felt more strongly. The body asks for time, quiet, adaptation. Forcing this process does not help: Saturn teaches us that true integration comes through slowness and listening.

When the direction changes: the case of America

If you are traveling to America, everything is reversed. The journey westward is the most challenging because it activates Saturn right away. It is wise to allow for a day to settle in, avoid exhausting tours, and give yourself time to truly “land.” The good news is that the return eastward will be smoother: the Sun will help you reintegrate more easily into your daily routine.

The role of the Natal Chart

These are general considerations, but Vedic Astrology teaches that every experience becomes unique when read through the Natal Chart. If, for example, your Sun is afflicted, you may feel tired even when traveling east and still need a lot of rest. If, on the other hand, the Sun is strong, you may adapt quickly and immediately feel energetic and curious to explore. The same applies to Saturn: its strength or weakness in the chart profoundly affects how we experience travel to the West.

The next time you travel, observe yourself. Notice which direction you feel jet lag most strongly. Is it the call of the Sun or the slow pace of Saturn that you feel?