how do you survive long economy flights without feeling like a pretzel?

Last week, I finally made it back home after three days of international travel—think two short flights, a bus ride, and then two monster flights (10 hours and 18 hours!) with a 4-hour layover in between. And yes, I was in economy the whole way. I spent months hunting for a good deal, so upgrading to business class was out of the question unless I wanted to sell a kidney. The short flights were fine, but those long hauls? My legs were aching, my backside went numb, and my neck felt like it had been twisted by a pretzel machine. I kept getting up every 30 minutes to stretch and walk around, but honestly, I felt like the only person doing it. Everyone else seemed glued to their seats, and I started wondering if I was being annoying, especially since the only space to move was near the bathrooms or the galley. Sleeping was a joke. I brought my noise-canceling headphones, but every little sound woke me up—guess that’s what happens after years of working late nights in sketchy neighborhoods. I already wear compression socks, dress in loose layers, bring a neck pillow, and chug water like a camel. I even avoid big meals before flying. But still, the pain and discomfort just won’t quit. Here’s my question: Has anyone found a trick that actually helps with the aches and pains of sitting in economy for hours? I saw some people wearing sandals instead of shoes—does that really help, or do your toes just freeze? I always end up somewhere cold, so I’d have to cram shoes in my carry-on anyway. I’d love to hear your real-life tips—especially if you’ve found something that works and doesn’t make you look totally ridiculous in the aisle. Or maybe you’ve got a funny story about trying to stretch and nearly knocking over the drink cart? Let’s commiserate! I feel like there’s got to be a better way than just suffering through it every year. #travelpain #longhaulflights #economyclass #travelstruggles #over50travel #Travel