Many people take the ability to book a plane ticket and enjoy a vacation for granted. However, for those who suffer from a fear of flying, the thought of boarding a plane can cause extreme anxiety and even prevent them from going on trips. But fear not, there are several tips and strategies that can help you overcome your fear and gain the confidence to fly to any destination.
Here are 7 effective ways to overcome your fear of flying:
- Meet the pilot before takeoff
- Focus on different objects
- Bring things to distract yourself during the flight
- Spend the flight asleep
- Be strategic with seat choice
- Learn about the aircraft
- Put trust in your travel buddy
1. Meet the pilot before takeoff
One effective strategy is to meet the pilot before takeoff. This can help alleviate your fear by establishing a personal connection with the person in control of the plane. It can make you feel more at ease and realize that the pilot is a real person and not just a voice.
2. Focus on different objects
Another technique is to focus on different objects during the flight. One exercise called “5, 4, 3, 2, 1” can help lower stress hormones and divert your attention from your anxiety. This exercise involves finding something to focus on straight ahead and then counting five things you can see, hear, and touch, followed by counting down to one. This exercise helps shift your focus and reduce stress.
3. Bring things to distract yourself during the flight
Bringing distractions can help take your mind off the fact that you’re on a plane. Download movies or TV shows on your phone or electronic device before the flight, bring books, crosswords, coloring books, or even card games to keep yourself occupied and entertained.
4. Spend the flight asleep
Trying to fall asleep on a plane can be challenging, especially if you’re feeling anxious. However, there are ways to make it easier. Booking an early morning or late-night flight can increase your chances of falling asleep due to tiredness and darkness. Bringing a travel pillow, blanket, and playing calming sounds on your phone can also help create a sleep-friendly environment.
5. Be strategic with seat choice
When booking your flight, try to choose a seat that suits your needs and makes you feel more secure. Sitting towards the front of the plane tends to be quieter and more peaceful, while sitting towards the back may be noisier with more movement.
6. Learn about the aircraft
Gaining knowledge about planes and how they work can help alleviate fears. Researching the functioning and safety features of aircraft can provide you with a better understanding of the flight process, increasing your confidence and sense of safety during travel.
7. Put trust in your travel buddy
If you’re traveling with someone else, lean on them for support. Share your fears and coping mechanisms with them, so they’re aware of how to assist you during anxious moments. Having a trusted person by your side can provide comfort and a calming presence.
Remember, the chances of a plane crash are extremely rare, and turbulence, while sometimes unsettling, is usually not a cause for concern. By following these tips and strategies, you can overcome your fear of flying and embark on worry-free trips to your dream destinations.
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