10 TIPS TO BEAT YOUR FEAR OF FLYING

There is an easy and fast way to meet the world: travelling by airplane.

However, if you are one of those people who are afraid of the planes, then you should know that you are losing a big chance to meet new places and people as well as a unique experience to add in your life-list. This fear keeps you away from the things that you would be proud of narrating some years later.

 

I have been travelling for ten years in a row both as a passenger and a FLIGHT ATTENDANT, knowing that this fear is very common. I have been to almost all over the world, from Japan to California, from Africa to Iceland, and as you understand, I have dealt with several panic crises during a flight. Each case was different but with the symptoms were always the same:  sweat, dyspnea, trembling eyes and fist-hands, all leading to strong anxiety.

 

Before I share my advice about the airplane-fear with you, I have to take statistics into account which consider the airplane as the second safest means of transport; the first ones are the elevator and escalators. What is more, the possibilities of an airplane crash is 1 to 11 millions while a car accident can be 1 to 5000 times more possible.

 

So, you understand that both the statistics and possibilities are by your side. Start boarding the planes!

#1. FIND THE ROOT OF YOUR FEAR

 

The first step to make a fear go away is to understand the reason of it. How you got this fear and when it actually started. For example, the fear of heights is different from claustrophobia or agoraphobia. If you realize what is your actual fear, you will know how to surpass it. 

 

 

#2. FAMILIARIZE
 

The only way to not be afraid of the airplanes, is to get on an actual airplane. You can start  your #travellinggoal with short hops, such as a Europeαn destination like Rome –ps. don’t forget to taste the fantastic tiramisu!- In this way, you will give yourself the necessary time and place to feel more comfortable with the whole flying process. It takes time, but it will definitely help you.

 

#3. TALK ABOUT IT
 

Communicate your fears to a member of the aircrew in order for you to relax, feel more confident and receive some psycological assistance. The flight attendants are especially trained to these kinds of situations and their confidence is strong enough to make you feel absolutely safe. Don't be ashamed to ask for their help; it's undoubtedly valuable.

 

 

Photo by Suhyeon Choi
 

#6. IN-FLIGHT MEDITATION

 

Even if you have never done this before, a meditation music in your phone can still do all the magic. This relaxing music will help you close your eyes, clear your mind and focus on something beautiful. Think about something that makes you feel nice, like the lovely Supertree Grove in Singapore! Keep your eyes closed, listen to the music and feel free!

 

 

 

#7. ESSENTIAL OILS: MUST-HAVE

 

The essential oils can help your body relax and your immune system "wake up". Lavender is my favorite one and can become yours too in this case. You can have a roll-on or spray with your favorite essential oil and put it either on your wrist or in your clothes; just a breath of it will be an excellent anti-stress !

#8. KEEP THE AIR VENT OPEN

 

Ok, I know that you cannot breathe the fresh air inside an airplane - something that you mostly need during an axiety crisis -. But, a very good tip is to always  keep your air vent open to renew the air above your seat. It will be very helpful in combination with tip number 5!

 

 

 

#9. LEARN ABOUT THE FLYING PROCESS

 

A little research on how the airplanes operate and fly - especially about the take-off or the touchdown - will calm you down. Getting a total picture of the flying pocess will help you explain most of the sounds which may scary you during your trip, such as when the gear system is activated for landing
 

You can also follow me on INSTAGRAM account where I always upload videos both about my journey and from inside the plane. You will immediately feel better through my own flights and I am sure you will want to travel very soon!

#10. AVOID COFFEE AND ALCOHOL 

 

Coffee can worsen a stress situation or cause you nervousness. So, you'd better avoid any kind of caffeine during a trip. That means that you should avoid any caffeine-drink such as tea. Provide yourself with your own teabag and choose a valerian tea which can instead, relax you. If you're a tea-lover you will feel me.

 

On the other hand, you may feel that the alcohol is a perfect relaxer but the huge consumption of it can cause hyper-sensibility. In general though, I suggest you do what you think it's best for you; if the second glass of wine can relax you and help you get away with your fear, go ahead and enjoy it!

 

 

I will sum up this article by saying that there is always a good reason for a trip; you should focus on this reason and not let your fear stop you from acquiring amazing experiences! Find the most positive, beautiful reason to open your wings and let the fear of "flying" go away!

 

BON VOYAGE!