Don’t Allow a Fear of Flying to Ground You! Conquering Your Fear of Flying!
By: Rebecca Sebek
If you have a fear of flying, you are not alone. Millions of people suffer from a fear of flying formally known as aviophobia. The severity of aviophobia ranges from pre-flight anxiety to full blown panic attacks. Just the thought of flying can trigger an attack. A third of the general population suffers from aviophobia in one form or another, although many will be able to travel by air when necessary.
For some, the fear of flying became more intense after the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Centers in New York. With a little help, determination, perseverance, and “divine” intervention, you will be able to conquer your fear once and for all.
Your mind is a very powerful instrument. When you think “what if” thoughts such as What if the engine fails? What if we hit rough turbulence? What if there is a snowstorm? What if something happens to the pilots? So many “what ifs” so little room to mention them all! Remember, what you resist will persist.
Negative self talk is the worst thing you can do before and during a flight. Relaxation and positive self talk exercises can help calm your nerves. Focus on a place, person, or memory that brings a smile to your face. Meditate on those thoughts and the feelings that accompany them. Another relaxation technique is deep breathing exercises. When you breathe in and out focus on your breathing technique. Inhale slowly, and exhale the same. This will take your mind off of the flight.
To quote a priest who was on a flight “flying is God with wings.” Amen to that! When you fly and find yourself in the clouds think of it as being closer to God and the angels. Before you board a flight say a little prayer to God to watch over you and everyone on the airplane. Continue your prayers as you take your seat and throughout the flight. Think of it this way, in a few seconds you will be meeting God. I mean that in a good way!
Please visit the following resources to assist you with conquering your fear of flying:
www.webmd.com