Nervous Flyer? Don't Let it Spoil Your Trip!


Boarding a plane and flying across continents and oceans can be daunting for even the most experienced of travellers. If you're nervous about getting on a plane, you're certainly not alone. It's thought that around eighteen percent of people are scared of flying, and that another twelve percent on top of that experience some kind of anxiety around it. But it's important not to let your nerves take over and spoil your trip, being able to get on a plane and travel around the world is one of the most incredible modern luxuries we have and so it's worth taking advantage whenever possible without feeling put off. Here are some tips for calming your nerves on your next flight.

Visualise your destination
When you're feeling nervous and wondering if it's all worth it, picture your destination and think of the experiences you'll have. Being able to travel and see new and exciting parts of the world is one of the most amazing things you can do in life. Rather than focus on the flight, think about the place you'll be landing in instead. Picture yourself lying on that beautiful beach, or maybe you have something relaxing planned for when you arrive? If you search 'massage spa near me' when you get there you're bound to find some fantastic options. It's a great way to switch off and start getting excited about the holiday that lies ahead. Plus, it'll be a great way to destress yourself and relax your muscles once the plane has touched down in your new destination!

Something like the Yin & meditation yoga retreat in Italy for example will quickly make you forget about your journey, or maybe you could just book in for a massage somewhere. Depending on where you are in the world there will be differerent techniques- from Swedish massage in Sweden to Indian head massage in India, ‘Amma’ in Japan or aromatherapy in Egypt. Well worth researching before you go. 

Remember the statistics
Millions of flights take off and land successfully every year with no problems whatsoever. While scary, plane crashes and problems with planes account for a miniscule proportion of all journeys. You have more chance of getting in an accident on the way to the airport- not the most reassuring way to think about it but it's true! Don't spend ages dwelling on this, but just remember that planes are very well maintained and an extremely safe mode of transport. 

Keep busy
Keeping yourself busy before the flight means you're not sitting around worrying or getting stressed. Spend the time beforehand taking advantage of the shops in the airport, have a nice meal and chat with whoever you're travelling with to take your mind off the flight. Once you're on board, take advantage of the in-flight entertainment and be sure to bring your own too. 1st Choice Accomodations has information on how to get the best out of listening to music on board. A tablet is a great flying companion since you can load it up with movies, games and music to keep you going.

Take a herbal remedy
Herbal over the counter treatments such as Kalms and Rescue Remedy are a natural way to make you feel more relaxed, and can ease symptoms of anxiety surrounding your flight. Other herbal remedies have been said to be effective in some people, and so you could visit your local health foods shop and enquire about the kinds of things they have available. Avoiding caffeine can also be helpful, since this triggers an anxiety response in some people. It's not just tea and coffee to avoid, fizzy drinks, chocolate and other sweets can all contain it too.

Are you a nervous flyer?