So, on Monday, I was still in “welcome to New York” bliss when I wrote the post A Weekend in Three Cities.

Now, three days later, I’m dealing severely with the consequences of my weekend choices. Just in case any of you thought I wasn’t human and never hit that place of utter exhaustion or dealt with jet lag, this post is for you!

Things didn’t start to get rough until Tuesday afternoon when suddenly I felt as if I was walking around in a daze. I went to a happy hour with my old office and barely had energy. I snuck out early because I just couldn’t handle catching up with people. My eyelids kept closing and I caught myself constantly yawning, even though it was only 8 pm.

I went to bed an hour later, sleeping until 7:30 yesterday. I woke up feeling good but emotionally I was a wreck. I blew up at Bo about something so insignificant I can’t remember it now. The entire day, I was an emotional roller coaster. I headed downstairs to run, hoping that releasing some endorphins would help make me feel better. For thirty minutes, I felt incredible.

But then, as if the run used the last of my energy, I went back the zombie-like lethargic stage. I had a few errands I had to run yesterday including seeing an apartment in Brooklyn and sorting through some issues with our bank. Two separate people told me I looked ill and faint while I sat in their offices. In fact, I found myself briefly snoozing in one office, while the kind lady processed our paperwork. I owe her a cupcake and thank you note for her kindness.

I came home, donned my eye mask, and did my best to sleep from 4-7pm. In the middle of Times Square, this isn’t an easy feat due to the traffic and construction noise. Yesterday, this didn’t phase me a bit and instead I found myself just waking up when Bo walked through the door.

I tried to rally, going out to dinner at a neighborhood spot, but couldn’t bring myself to eat as my stomach wasn’t having it.

Up four times during the night, and still in bed this morning, I’ve learned the hard way that jet lag is far more than just exhaustion.

In the future, do as I say, not as I do. Don’t think that you’re invincible and that “powering through” will mean that you can do it all without feeling the affects of jet lag.  After a stressful week and long flight, make sure to be kind to your body, so it doesn’t rebel. Unfortunately, there aren’t many recommendations on what to do at this point in the game other than rest, warm bubble bath, and sunshine.

So with this revelation, that stomach issues and even PMS symptoms can be a symptom of jet lag, I’m going back to sleep. My only goal for today, other than packing for our long weekend away in the Catskills, is to sip NUUN and sleep as much as possible. Hopefully, I’ll wake up feeling better and excited for the relaxing long weekend with family!