Preventing Sea Sickness (Naturally)

The first time I swam alongside a whale shark, I should’ve been in awe, yet all I could think about was staying steady in the rolling waves.

The anticipation of seeing these gentle giants had built for weeks, but by the time our small boat reached the middle of the ocean, an hour from shore and surrounded by people speaking a language I barely understood, however my body had other plans. The rhythm of the sea tested every ounce of composure I had. It was, all at once, one of the most breathtaking and disorienting moments of my life.

Throughout my travels, I’ve come to accept that motion sickness is my reluctant companion. Growing up far from the ocean didn’t exactly prepare me for life on the water, and no matter how seasoned I’ve become as a traveler, that uneasy sway still finds me. It’s humbling how nature reminds us that we’re not entirely in control.

Still, the more time I’ve spent exploring, the more I’ve learned that motion sickness doesn’t have to steal the magic of the journey. Over the years, I’ve gathered a handful of gentle, practical methods that have helped me manage it, some rooted in science, others in mindfulness. They may not work for everyone, but they’ve allowed me to keep chasing experiences, fully present, steady enough to notice the wonder right in front of me.

What is Motion Sickness?

Motion sickness is a common affliction that affects a significant number of individuals who travel by various means, including air, land, and sea. This phenomenon is known by different names depending on the mode of transportation: "car sickness" is associated with travel by vehicle, "sea sickness" pertains to maritime journeys, "air sickness" refers to discomfort experienced during flights, and "space motion sickness" is a term that even applies to astronauts, with studies indicating that as many as 50% of them experience nausea during space missions.

The symptoms of motion sickness can be quite distressing and include an increased breathing rate (hyperventilation), cold sweats, dizziness, heightened salivation, headaches, fatigue, and an overwhelming sense of discomfort that can overshadow the joy of travel.

Keep your eyes on the horizon!

One of the strategies I found helpful was keeping my eyes on the horizon. When on a boat, focusing on a fixed point in the distance can help stabilize your sense of balance and reduce the feeling of nausea. Additionally, incorporating ginger into my travel routine has proven beneficial; whether in the form of ginger candies or fresh slices, ginger is known for its natural anti-nausea properties.

Keep your eyes on the horizon!

Music is another essential item I always bring along. Having a familiar soundtrack can create a sense of comfort and distraction, helping to ease the discomfort associated with motion sickness. Additionally, I have learned the importance of bringing along sugary snacks. While on boats, soft drinks like Coke are often available, but I personally dislike soda and have never associated it with anything positive. Instead, I opt for sweet treats that can provide a quick energy boost and help mitigate nausea.

Avoid lying down

One crucial piece of advice I can offer is to avoid lying down while experiencing motion sickness. I recall a kayaking adventure in Hawaii where I faced large ocean waves while heading to a cliff diving spot. As I began to feel nauseous, the urge to lie down was strong, but I knew from experience that this would only exacerbate my symptoms.

Bring snacks!

Lastly, keeping something to munch on during the journey can be incredibly helpful. Focusing your brain on consistent motions, such as chewing, can provide a distraction that may alleviate some of the nausea. By staying engaged with my surroundings and focusing on manageable tasks, I have found some relief from the discomfort that often accompanies travel.