Overcoming Anxiety While Flying is a guide to help those who experience flight anxiety, which affects about one in three people. This anxiety, which can occur before, during, or after a flight, can range from mild symptoms like sweaty palms to panic attacks.
Various causes, including traumatic experiences and specific phobias, can trigger this anxiety, but it is important to remember that this is a common psychological response.
By understanding the triggers of anxiety and applying some practical strategies, you can overcome your fear and enjoy air travel more comfortably, reported Kapanlagi.com from various sources, Tuesday (18/3/2025).
1. Tips to Reduce Anxiety Before Flying
If you feel anxious before departure, breathing techniques can help you.
Practice deep breathing to increase oxygen, slow your heart rate, and reduce stress.
To do this, sit or lie down comfortably, place one hand on your chest and one on your abdomen, inhale deeply through your nose until your abdomen expands, then exhale slowly through your mouth.
Additionally, practice 'breath focus' by closing your eyes and concentrating on a calming word or image while breathing. With this practice, you will be more prepared to face the flight!
2. 4-7-8 Breathing Technique
The 4-7-8 technique is an effective method for calming restless minds by focusing on breathing.
To do this: close your mouth, inhale through your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, then exhale through your mouth for 8 seconds.
Moreover, Enhanced Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) helps release muscle tension by tensing a group of muscles while breathing.
Integrate these techniques into your daily routine to alleviate anxiety and enhance emotional well-being. Try it and find the method that works best for you!
3. Tips to Reduce Anxiety During a Flight
After finding your seat on the plane, before you get immersed in thrilling movies, it’s a good idea to create a calming relaxation plan.
Mindfulness is key to alleviating anxiety and stress, especially when the journey feels a bit shaky, both physically and emotionally. One method you can try is visualization.
Take some time a few days before the flight to imagine positive experiences, such as smoothly passing through security, enjoying the journey in the air, and landing safely at your destination.
Once the plane is in the air, use the power of this imagination to distract yourself from any stress that may arise, whether it’s the jolt of turbulence or the cramped seat space.
Picture yourself in a peaceful place, like a calm beach, a lush forest, or majestic mountains, and feel the tranquility flowing within you.
4. Mindful Breathing
Mindful breathing is an effective technique to calm the nervous system and reduce stress while flying.
The method involves taking a deep breath in through the nose, holding it for a moment, and then slowly exhaling through the mouth.
Additionally, guided meditation and relaxation sounds from a smartphone can help create a calm atmosphere.
After the flight, journaling about the experiences and techniques that helped can assist in managing anxiety and provide insights for future travels.
(kpl/rao)
Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.