Working early morning, night shifts in Dubai? Read this

This will help you manage your life.

It is a common sight to find the first Dubai Metro at 6 am crowded as countless residents put themselves through the grueling early morning or night shifts. 
Whether you are part of the hospitality or medical sector, a supermarket employee or any other industry, working on rotating shifts is common in the city.
Working in shifts can take a toll on your body as you have to adjust your biological clock often. Here are some tips to have a smooth transition:
GET YOUR NUTRITION FIX
It is common for people working on shifts to have stomach problems as they resort to quick bites at odd hours. Rather than having a bite only when you are hungry, try to eat three proper meals through the day.
Avoid munching on snacks and eat a balanced diet inclusive of fruits, vegetables, and cereals. Keep consuming plenty of water and juices to stay alerted during your shift. 
MANAGE YOUR SLEEP PATTERN
Getting a good 7 to 8 hours of sleep is as critical as getting your nutrition right and exercising. But the hardest part about working in shifts is going to bed after your shift ends. You might leave your shift tired but sleep might evade you once you are home. In such cases, it is best to gradually transition your body clock. If you were on the night shift, wear dark glasses to avoid the sun as it might activate your 'wake up' clock. Reduce the intake of caffeine and heavy meals.
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BALANCE YOUR WORK AND SOCIAL LIFE
Switch yourself off from work once your shift is over and get started with your life. Plan your schedule well in advance with your friends and family and hit out when you see a free window. Also, it would be easier to make plans with colleagues who are on the shift with you. Befriend them to keep your social life intact.
EXERCISE
Staying in shape despite odd working hours is a challenge but regular exercise will help you adapt to the stressful schedule. Exercise keeps your mind and body alert and boosts productivity at work. Despite rotating working hours, find the time to go for a run, hit the gym or take up a dance class to stretch your body.
CUT DOWN CAFFEINE
Although caffeine might be your solution to beat sleep, do not reach for that extra cup. Caffeine is not a source of energy and it is best not to consume it a couple of hours before sleeping. 
TUNE OFF ONCE A WEEK
While it might be difficult for few to completely unplug from work, it is important to not think about work at least once a week. Avoid checking your emails every time your phone beeps. Keep your laptop away for a day and feel refreshed as you start your week.   
To refresh yourself, do something completely different on your off days. Go for a run, exercise, take a massage, etc.
If you have the option, do not take up night or early morning shifts for months in a row. Break the pattern and give your body some relief by opting for regular shifts.
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