Leaving for a far away destination can be a thrilling moment in life. If you get excited about going to the airport when starting a vacation, you’re not alone. Some people, however, don’t feel that excitement when they step into the airport. Instead, they may feel an extreme sense of fear or anxiety at the thought of getting onto a plane. If you are someone who gets nervous when flying, here are some strategies to help alleviate your fears.
Think of the Statistics
The honest truth is that air travel is the safest form of transportation in existence. Air travel is so safe because of the large number of regulations and checks that go into each flight every day. It is statistically more likely that someone will die from a car accident on the way to the airport rather than be killed in a plane crash. Unfortunately, whenever there is an aviation incident, the high level of media coverage makes it seem more common than it actually is.
How to Overcome Anxiety and Feel Comfortable While Flying
Leaving for a far away destination can be a thrilling moment in life. If you get excited about going to the airport when starting a vacation, you’re not alone. Some people, however, don’t feel that excitement when they step into the airport. Instead, they may feel an extreme sense of fear or anxiety at the thought of getting onto a plane. If you are someone who gets nervous when flying, here are some strategies to help alleviate your fears.
Think of the Statistics
The honest truth is that air travel is the safest form of transportation in existence. Air travel is so safe because of the large number of regulations and checks that go into each flight every day. It is statistically more likely that someone will die from a car accident on the way to the airport rather than be killed in a plane crash. Unfortunately, whenever there is an aviation incident, the high level of media coverage makes it seem more common than it actually is.
Look at Air Traffic Numbers
One tip to help you feel better about taking that next flight is to look at the number of planes in the sky at any given moment. Using a live flight tracker can help you see how many planes are currently in the sky. This can help some people feel a little better about their individual flight. When you think of all of those planes taking off and landing successfully, it may help ease your worry.
Focus on a Book or Movie
Once you’re in the air, you may still feel nervous, even if you know your fear is not based in fact. Try to use the flight time to catch up on your reading. Getting into a compelling story in your novel may help you forget about your surroundings and feel less worried. Many long distance planes also have entertainment screens right at your seat. Try choosing a few movies to watch while your plane makes its way to your destination.
Get Some Sleep
If a movie or a book won’t help you forget about your fear, another tip is to try to sleep. Choose a flight that is more apt to help you sleep, like an overnight red-eye flight across the Atlantic. When the lights get dimmed, curl up in your seat with your pillow and blanket and drift off to sleep. Then, when you wake up, you’ll be closer to your destination.
Use Relaxation Techniques
If you’re having trouble falling asleep, or if your flight is taking place in the middle of the day, you may need to try an alternative way to help relax. One way to relax is to try meditating at your seat. Focus your energy on your calm place to help your mind feel at ease. You could also try some deep breathing exercises to take your mind off of the flight. Some fearful flyers walk around the plane and do simple stretches to activate their sense of calm.
Watch the Flight Attendants
As your flight takes off, cruises, and lands, one way to keep yourself from worrying too much is to focus on the actual flight. Familiarize yourself with the routine steps of taking off and landing, and listen to the typical sounds that the plane makes when it goes through each stage. Additionally, keep a close eye on the flight attendants on board. If you hear an unusual sound, look to see if they appear worried. When you see that the flight attendants don’t even notice, that means the sound is perfectly normal.
Bring a Special Treat
Eating is another way to help busy yourself while on a tough flight. If your plane serves a meal, you can look forward to getting served something new. While you’re waiting, try snacking on your own food items. Bring yourself a special treat, like cookies made with Just Cookie Dough from HamptonCreek.
See Your Doctor
If all else fails, the last step to take for flight anxiety is to see your doctor. For those who have a fear that is so profound that it prevents them from flying, this may be the best option. Your physician may prescribe medication to you before the flight to help you relax.
Flying to a new place can be an exciting adventure, but for some, it can be scary. Let yourself relax a little bit more by trying some new ways to curb your fear.
Article Submitted By Community Writer