There is little doubt about the benefit of air travel. You can get to distant destinations faster than by any other method. Unfortunately, this means sitting in one position for a long time in an uncomfortable seat, which may cause problems in the body's circulation. We have long known that good circulation is important for the blood, of course, but it is also important for the lymph system of the body.

The lymph system manufacturers white blood cells and transmits vital fluids to each body part. When you are ill, you have swollen lymph nodes because your body has to work harder to produce the white blood cells to fight disease. The lymph system performs very vital functions for the body by helping circulation, adding white blood cells and carrying essential ingredients to the organs and waste away from them. The lymph system keeps the kidneys functioning cleanly and efficiently. Unlike the circulatory system, which has the heart as a powerful pump, the lymph system has no pump and has to use the movement of the body's muscles to push the fluids through the system. When a person is not moving for an extended period of time the important function of the lymph system is not being performed. The body has to keep on moving to make it work properly.

Since it is not always easy to keep moving when you are travelling by plane, it is important to be aware of the dangers that this non-movement can cause. Many airlines include a small safety presentation about this issue and advise passengers to do some exercises at frequent intervals to keep the blood and other bodily fluids circulating. In addition to preventing discomfort, stiffness and fatigue, moving about on the plane will help to prevent venous thrombosis, which has been found to be a serious risk on long flights. Venous thrombosis is a blood clot, and blood clots can kill if they go to the heart or to the brain. Doing simple exercises, such as doing bicep curls by lifting your carry on bag a few times, walking around the cabin and stretching, raising and lowering your legs in your seat or doing some isometric exercises such as squeezing and releasing various body parts will all help prevent thrombosis. However, it is important to be aware of your fellow passenger's comfort while you are doing your exercises.

In addition to trying to move as much as you can , you can also help your body by drinking plenty of liquids and avoiding alcohol and smoking. Alcohol and smoking both have negative effects on circulation. You should not sit with your legs crossed for any length of time, and you should be sure your clothes are loose and comfortable so as not to restrict circulation. If you have circulation problems in your legs, tell your doctor you are going on a long flight. He may recommend compression stockings to stop swelling and increase the circulation.