(Post By Karen W.)
I hate to fly. The mere thought of traveling by air causes me anxiety; not so much that I refuse to do it, but one of the first things I think about when my family suggests a vacation spot is how long or complicated the journey will be. Can we get there non-stop? How many hours will it take? Will we be crossing an ocean or a mountain range?
Intellectually I know this fear is unwarranted, especially considering the amount of time I spend traveling by car, shuttling my kids all over creation for every conceivable extra-curricular activity. I’ve looked at several studies, and while the numbers may change from year to year, travel by commercial airline is still considered the safest mode of transportation. Ian Savage of Northwestern University published a study in 2013 that compared risks over time and across transportation modes. Given the data, he is quoted as saying, “One might argue that transportation equipment and, in particular, the motor vehicle, must be the most dangerous machines that we interact with on a daily basis … The annual toll in motor vehicle crashes exceeds the deaths resulting from the next most dangerous mechanical device by about 40%.”
Despite never having experienced any particularly harrowing airline drama, my anxiety has not yet responded to attempts of rational self-negotiation: my brain doesn’t seem interested in the facts, nor in my past experience. The anxiety isn’t debilitating enough for me to seek out professional help, but it sure would be nice to find the process of travel more enjoyable. So, to that end, I’ve been reading blogs and articles that address the topic. I’ve found a plethora of advice, and after pouring over the various insights (many of which were consistent among contributors), I’ve compiled a personal arsenal to combat the anxiety. If you share my apprehension, perhaps you’ll find these helpful, too:
Reduce “background anxiety” – If a person is already dealing with an elevated level of general anxiety, they are not well equipped to handle additional flying anxiety. Carve out time to relax and de-stress in advance of the trip. Of all the tips and tricks I researched, this was the single most consistent point among bloggers. Anxiety is cumulative, and it can spill into other areas of your life. A reduction in overall anxiety can lessen travel anxiety.
Capitalize on advanced planning – Packing well in advance and ironing out pre-travel details is a must for the anxious traveler. This ties into the “background anxiety” piece as well. Leaving plenty of time to get to the airport (my husband would say I leave too much) is also paramount. I am not a spontaneous, fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants gal (pun intended). Rushing around trying to get last minute things in order does not bode well for my travel experience. Adding a buffer day to travel plans can help tremendously to reduce pre-travel chaos. I’ve taken to adding an extra day before and after trips (when at all possible) to both plan for, and decompress after, travel.
Engage in meaningful activity – Nothing beats the art of distraction. While it may not be possible to disengage completely from the in-flight experience, there are some things that may help take your mind off of the flight. Treat yourself to a new engrossing novel (or two) and some fun new apps for your tablet. If you are not one for the in-flight movie (or there isn’t one offered), having a new playlist uploaded is a great way to set a relaxing tone. An engaging conversation can help to pass the time. Even allowing yourself a unique and yummy treat to indulge in during the flight can be something to look forward to (perhaps paired with a glass of wine or favorite beverage).
Employ relaxation techniques – Paying attention to the outward signs of stress and using relaxation techniques to minimize them not only works on a physical level, but it provides an additional way to engage the mind. The recommendation is to breathe in deeply (from all the way down in your abdomen) for four counts, and exhale for four counts. Visualization is also helpful. Simply imagining yourself in a serene environment is sometimes all that’s needed to quell the sweats. If your final destination is somewhere joyful and inviting, take a picture along to focus on during the flight.
Practice “Mindful Meditation” – This is one that I’m excited to put into practice. I have tried a more traditional meditation in the past and have never had much success. I simply cannot maintain the passive attitude required to detach myself from the thoughts and images that clamor for attention. With Mindful Meditation, you aren’t seeking to detach from these thoughts or relegate them to the background, but rather to acknowledge them. By not reacting negatively to them, you can detach from the negative thinking that normally surrounds them. By not judging these uncomfortable thoughts, they are allowed to pass.
If you still find yourself grounded by your anxiety, consider talking to a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist about your fear of flying. Many offer classes and sessions specifically tailored to this particular issue. Or, they may recommend you work on reducing your “background anxiety.” Some airlines and airports offer courses aimed at helping nervous flyers confront their fears. At Phoenix Sky Harbor International, “Capt Ron’s” Fearless Flight classes convene monthly. Milwaukee’s Mitchell Airport has been offering courses since the mid-80s. British Airways’ Flying With Confidence program is offered around the globe (even in New York). Should you find yourself in Great Britain, Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Without Fear program offers a ground course at Heathrow Airport and premium courses that include an actual flight. There’s even the option to bring along a companion for support during the flight portion.
So do what you can to Keep Calm and Fly On! Enjoy the wonders of modern aviation and take yourself to destinations that will nourish your mind and bring joy to your life.