Traveling is one of the most exciting things you can do, but the worst part of the trip is, no doubt, the flight. There’s nothing\u00a0fun about being\u00a0squeezed between strangers for hours on end, and it’s pretty freaky to think about what could happen when you’re that high up in the\u00a0the air.<\/p>\n
However, it’s important to find ways to get over a\u00a0fear of flying so you can enjoy all the perks\u00a0of travel without having to dread the\u00a0journey\u00a0there.\u00a0If you have a trip planned this summer, consider one of these six\u00a0ways to calm your\u00a0flying anxiety.<\/p>\n
Take an Evening Flight<\/strong> Listen to Relaxing Music<\/strong> Distract Yourself<\/strong> Listen to a Guided Meditation<\/strong> Bring a Comforting Object<\/strong>
\n“Many individuals who suffer with a fear of flying report having an easier time with night flights<\/span>, as the take-off and distances from the ground are less visible,” says psychotherapist\u00a0Denise Limongello, LMSW<\/a>. “If your mindset is one of starting with smaller goals to help you overcome your fear of flying, this might be a great example of a way to take a gradual approach to working on being able to fly comfortably.”<\/p>\n
\n“Load up your phone with relaxing or favorite tunes,” says\u00a0psychotherapist Sharon Martin LCSW<\/a>.\u00a0“Then put on your headphones, sit back, and enjoy your playlist.”\u00a0Listening to music can reduce the stress level cortisol<\/a>, and research even shows it can help reduce anxiety more than prescription drugs.<\/p>\n
\nPlan ahead and bring activities that you can enjoy on\u00a0the plane. “Distraction is an effective strategy for fear of flying,” says Martin.\u00a0“Bring along activities that require mental focus such as crossword puzzles, a novel you can’t put down, or a video game.”<\/p>\n
\n“Download some guided meditations that will guide you through relaxing your mind and body,” says Martin. “Simple deep breathing can also work wonders. Breathe slowly in through your nose for a count of four, and then exhale through your mouth for another count of four.”<\/p>\n
\nIt’s okay if you want to bring your teddy bear on your flight — we’re not judging. “Don’t be embarrassed to bring your favorite blanket, fuzzy slippers, or lucky baseball cap,” says Martin. “Adults can benefit from a security blanket just as much as a child.”<\/p>\n