Flight anxiety prevents a person from travelling by air. Moreover, it causes great distress to an individual when air travel is the only option left with.
Most people who find flying terrifying go to extremes to avoid it in the first place.
Do you love going on vacation? And does the fear of getting on a plane spoils your travelling plans every time? If so, then you are not alone!
As per the National Institute of Mental health, almost 6.5% of the U.S population has aviophobia ( fear of flying). Apart from that 25% of individuals experience flying-related anxiety.
Are you afraid of flying? Remember, it is very much conquerable for most people.
6 Tips To Get Over Flight Anxiety And Relax On A Plane
Following are some of the tricks to counteracting your flight anxiety and to relax on a plane:
1. Know Your Phobia
Initially, it is important to figure out what triggers your fear while flying. For instance, some people are afraid of turbulence and feel anxious during normal takeoff.
On the other hand, individuals with germaphobic tendencies are more concerned about the spread of germs in confined spaces.
Are you about to land and plane wheels are about to fall off - is it time to panic? No, it's not.
The seat-back tables start shifting slightly just like they do every time the plane takes off and lands.
Sometimes, to combat anxiety, all you need is to be informed.
Familiarize yourself with typical bumps and noises that may occur during the flight. Additionally, it helps you to understand how rigorous safety measures are for aircraft.
Turbulence is a normal part of flying. It usually happens when a plane encounters normal weather conditions like air currents or clouds.
I know the idea of shaking while in the air is very unsettling. Isn't?
You should not wait for it to end rather calm yourself while this is taking place.
2. How Important is Distraction while Flying?
In a nutshell - distraction really works. Nowadays, airlines offer little comforts of home such as television, magazines, etc. This helps you distract from the noises and bumps during the flight.
It makes you feel more at home than in a strange place.
One of the best ways to distract yourself during flying is to bring a book that you have already started and deeply engrossed in it.
3. Communicate with Flight Attendants
It’s important to let the plane staff know that you are not keen on flying. In this way, you may receive extra attention from flight attendants during the flight.
Read safety information properly.
Don’t worry! Your plane is not going to crash.
Preparing yourself for anything can be empowering. Once you are on board the aircraft, spend some time reading the airline safety card.
You can nook your seat in the back of the plane which is repeatedly shown as the safest part of the aircraft.
4. Take a Deep Breath
Deep breathing plays a vital role during taking off and whenever you feel anxious. If someone is anxious, it is difficult for them to change their breathing pattern.
Try holding your breathe and then take a deep breath.
Moreover, force yourself to breathe out for as long as you can. Try to maintain a relaxed posture rather than just clinging to the chair’s armrests.
5. Avoid having Coffee and Wine
According to researchers, flyers must avoid both caffeine and alcohol during air travel as this makes you feel more dehydrated during the flight.
Instead, it is recommended to opt for water and a light meal per-flight to keep yourself nourished.
6. Be aware of Relaxation Techniques
To stay less anxious while flying, be prepared by having regularly practiced relaxation techniques.
Some of the exercises which can be practiced beforehand are progressive muscle relaxation and meditation.
Some of the exercises which can be practiced beforehand are progressive muscle relaxation and meditation.
Be prepared with these relaxation techniques as they will help you deal with anxiety and keep your calm throughout your next flight.
Final Words
To only way to overcome your fear of flying is to face just like a warrior!
Be GREAT!
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