If fear of flying keeps you from traveling to places you have always dreamed about, know that you are not alone. My husband is one of the millions who have chosen not to fly. His is due to the fear of not being in control. Others may have a fear of heights, claustrophobia, health issues, or other fears.
Regardless of the reason, the fear of flying will definitely limit your traveling choices. But there are some techniques that can help you with coping with your fear, should you want to try.
Tips for Coping With the Fear of Flying
Prep Your Mind
First, remind yourself that a lot of people eventually conquered their fear of flying and subsequently flew all over the world. It wasn’t easy, but they did it – and YOU can, too.
Overcoming your fear of flying can be a frustrating up and down process.
A good way to start is to approach it in the same way you would when you begin a new sport. When learning a sport, you don’t have continuous improvement in your ability. Instead, you have periodic setbacks.
Keep that in mind, and the setbacks you have in conquering your fear of flying won’t cripple you.
Conscious Relaxation
One of the best things you can do for yourself, not just to conquer your fear of flying, but to improve your overall emotional health as well, is to train yourself to relax ‘on command.’
That sounds difficult, but just think how much easier it would be for you to handle stressful situations if you could relax on command. There are various methods to learn how to do it.
One way that works very well is called progressive muscle relaxation. You lie quietly. You tense a muscle and then relax it. Do this in all areas of your body, one by one.
Do an online search to find in-depth instructions for this technique. Or buy an mp3 that verbally takes you through the process with soft music playing behind the voice. Just follow the directions.
Practice the technique for a short time each day. If you do it when you first get up in the morning, you might find that you face the day in a better mood. And if you do it when you go to bed, you might find that you sleep better.
Another option is to take a few sessions with a hypnotherapist. The combination of working with a hypnotherapist and then doing muscle relaxation on your own is powerful.
Some people choose to use medication that will help with relaxing and control for their anxiety. Focused deep breathing and meditation is another practice.
Whatever method works for you is a step in the right direction.
Take a Short Flight
Once you’re feeling stronger, you can test yourself with a short flight. Book the flight early so you have your choice of seats.
Get there early on travel day so you have time to relax and be in control as best as you can. Have someone with you to help calm your nerves. Just be sure to use your method of choice to relax on command during the flight.
Remember, you can do this! Mind over matter is all about training your mind.
If you dream of traveling, learn to deal with your fear of flying so that you can fulfill that dream and enjoy life more. Hubby is going to work on it too. Baby steps!
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.
2 thoughts on “Tips for Coping With the Fear of Flying”
Great tips. I fly once a year and it terrifies me. I will use these tips next time
Thanks. Hope something works for you!