Afraid of flying? The 6 best tips against fear of flying

The plane is waiting on the tarmac and you immediately get anxious about flying? An estimated 15 percent of all passengers suffer from the symptoms of palpitations, sweating, nausea and shortness of breath. 20 percent feel uncomfortable. Fear of flying can be triggered quickly - for example, when the plane sinks like a stone in turbulence. Then even frequent flyers clutch the armrests rather uneasily. With these tips, however, those affected can get to their destination with ease.

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via Tanja Seiffert
07/18/2018, 17:29
Angst vorm Fliegen? Die 6 besten Tipps gegen Flugangst© iStock
"Are we going to crash?!" When the fear of flying turns into an ordeal

1. book the right seat

The good seats are next to the wings, where the movements of the aircraft can hardly be felt. If they are occupied: The front part of the plane is generally quieter during the flight. Incidentally, it's better to sit in the aisle than at the window: you can't look down.

2 Breathe away the fear of flying

Take as deep a breath as possible and then exhale very slowly. Hold your breath briefly and then do it all over again: with this technique, you simply breathe away your fear. Alternatively, you can pull your shoulders up to your ears and hold your breath for ten seconds. When you breathe out, let your shoulders hang loosely.

3. keep yourself occupied during the flight

Music, thrillers or crossword puzzleswhatever it is, the main thing is that it takes your mind off things. Incidentally, audio books and games offer the ideal trifecta of distraction, concentration and relaxation.

More information: Anxiety disorder - forms of therapy and treatment

4. lots of water and lots of sweets

If you have a fear of flying, the adrenaline level in your blood is quite high: your mouth goes dry, your heart races and your hands are cold and clammy. Drinking helps, at least half a liter of water. Incidentally, eating and drinking show the body that everything is okay, because nobody thinks about food when they are in mortal danger. If you can't get the sandwich down on board: Your favorite sweets or salty chips are also good.

5. loose clothing helps you relax

A tight shirt, tight pants, a stiff collar - that's not really relaxing. Loose jogging pants (which are now socially acceptable) and a loose T-shirt or sweatshirt are better. You can stretch, stretch and lounge around comfortably in them.

6. a fear of flying seminar takes away the fear

Many airlines now offer special courses designed to take away the fear of flying. Pilots explain how an airplane can fly at all, why it sometimes wobbles, and so on. In addition, relaxation exercises are practiced in the flight simulator. Costs: from 300 euros. As a cheaper alternative, there are also self-help books and offers such as tapping therapy or hypnosis.