There can be a myriad of benefits and reasons for moving to higher elevations. If you’re considering a move to an area like South Lake Tahoe, and you’re used to living at sea level be aware there are going to be a few changes that are going to occur.
A lot of what you hear about living at a higher elevation is nothing but scare tactics, mostly, the air is just going to be drier and thinner.
That being said there are going to be a few differences you may want to keep in mind when planning a move to the mountains. Below you’ll find a few tips that will support you and your family when adjusting to higher altitude living.
Hydrate More Frequently
When you live at a higher elevation you’re going to need to be drinking water more frequently. As your body starts to acclimate to higher elevations you’re going to be losing water and sodium, which can both contribute to dehydration.
Regardless of whether or not you exercise you’re going to have an increased chance of becoming dehydrated, especially as you and your family goes through the adjustment period.
There’s no set rule on how much water you need to be drinking, but you should plan on drinking more water than you originally did back home at a lower elevation.
Adjust Physical Activity Accordingly
If you’re planning on exercising, or spending a lot of time outdoors, it’s important to be aware that there’s an adjustment phase to higher elevation. When you first move up to higher elevation you’ll notice that you’re more lethargic anyways, so it’s going to be more difficult to partake in physical activity.
Since there’s less oxygen available at higher elevations you heart is going to have to work harder, and you’re going to breathe faster as a result. When you’re first getting acclimated to higher elevations make sure you adjust your physical activity accordingly.
Be Prepared For More Intense Sun
The higher you are in elevation the closer you’re going to be to the sun. The closer you are to the atmosphere, the more sun protection you’re going to need. Sunscreen and other sun protection is going to be very important.
Extra sun protection includes wide-brimmed hats, higher SPF sunscreen, and even shirts that have embedded sun protection.
Dress In Layers
During the winter or fall months you should be aware that weather changes very rapidly. If you’re planning on spending any significant time outside it’s important you bring plenty of layers.
When the temperature drops significantly wearing layers is one of the only ways to ensure you and your loved ones stay warm.
Try To Get More Sleep
Getting a solid night of sleep can be beneficial no matter what. But, it can be especially helpful when you’re acclimating to higher altitudes. Altitude exposure will have significant effects on your ability to sleep.
Try to do whatever possible to help yourself sleep longer and deeper. You also might not be able to sleep while you’re adjusting to the altitude, so plan accordingly.
Living at a higher altitude brings a host of benefits, but it also comes with its unique set of challenges. Make sure you plan accordingly and you’ll be enjoying your newfound life at higher altitudes in no time.
Image Credit: © Ldionisio | Dreamstime.com – Lake Tahoe Elevation Sign California Photo
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