How to Overcome Your Fear of Flying
We all look forward to holidays, but for some of us the way to the holiday destination can be a torture. Especially if you board a plane. Here are the best tips against fear of flying.
Preparation is the be-all and end-all
Fear of flying does not only start in the airplane. Most people are already afraid of flying because they have wrong ideas about flying. An airplane does not fall out of the sky like a stone, even if both engines fail. In good weather it can still glide up to 200 kilometres. It’s no coincidence that pilots have a saying, “The plane can take a lot more than the passengers.” Even turbulence is avoided whenever possible.
If you can’t think of anything else but your fear of flying in advance, you should also distract yourself with sport. On the day itself, you should not make your body heavier than it is. Tight trousers, onion-look or tight tops intensify the constricting feeling that some people experience when they board the plane.
Book the right place
If you suffer from fear of flying, it is recommended that you book a suitable place. The best place is near the wings – not because it’s so beautiful to look at the wings, but because it’s the least wobbly. Those who suffer from claustrophobia should definitely take a seat near the aisle. At least there, you have the feeling of being able to avoid it. For those who easily get sick, a window seat is recommendable in order to have a view to the wideness. This calms the eye.
Relaxing with the right technique
Now how do you manage to stay relaxed? At the start you should exhale for a particularly long time in order to loosen the tense body. Tense your muscles consciously, clench your fists and then let go. The whole thing is called progressive muscle relaxation. The most important thing is the correct breathing technique: deep inhalation and long exhalation, then briefly holding your breath and starting again. And most importantly, distract yourself. Use the on-board program or use the time to read or listen to audio books.
Stop the thought carousel
What if we run into a storm? Do you think the pilot is mentally stable? Was he slurring his words when he made the announcement? Did they check everyone who gets on the plane properly? Why is the seatbelt sign on now? Oh, God, the plane wall’s as thin as cardboard… Stop! Take a deep breath. It’s okay. Just look at the stewardesses: Do they look worried? No? Exactly.
Anyone who still panics should contact the flight attendants’ team. They’ll probably know what to do with guests on board who are afraid of flying – and will answer all your safety questions if necessary.
Correct handling of food and drink
Even if you don’t really feel like it at all: Take a bite to eat anyway. A light meal and plenty of fluids (without caffeine) are important to keep your circulation going. It’s better to avoid alcohol, even if you think that fear won’t be able to harm you. Instead of facing the fear, it will only increase if you get hazy.
Tranquilizer for panic
If all tips against fear of flying do not help, you will have to get help. Whether at a professional seminar against fear of flying or in the form of tranquilizers. There is nothing wrong with natural preparations such as valerian, Bach flowers and co. However, caution is advised with so-called benzodiazepines: Their effects may be reversed, making the anxiety worse.