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Just because you're a little afraid of heights, doesn't mean that you can't experience travel outside your continent. Flying isn't everyone's favourite thing to do, but there are ways even nervous flyers can calm down enough to get across an ocean or two. Read on to find out how to calm those nerves, so you can finally see the Eiffel Tower or Tokyo.
Distraction, Distraction, Distraction
Whether it's a really good book, your favourite playlist or a talkative friend, sometimes a simple distraction can keep your mind off of thoughts of hurtling through the air! Bring something on board you've been meaning to do for a long time: write a letter to a long lost friend, finish that crossword or dig into a book of Sudoku puzzles. The more involved your activity is, the better.
If you own a portable DVD player or laptop, bring it along; sometimes the in-flight movie doesn't help with the nausea, but actually induces it. An old favourite can do a lot to distract your nerves. Keep your mind busy and it won't be able to wander.
Be Comfortable
Get the seat that will make you most comfortable. If you want to be able to get up and use the bathroom frequently, an aisle seat is important. If you'd rather curl up and sleep for the entire flight, take the window to avoid interruptions.
Let the air-staff know you're a nervous flyer and they can help make your experience a better one.
Take a Nap
It might seem silly, but if you are able to fall asleep on a flight, it'll be a lot less stressful. To boot, having a nap will make the flight quicker and you'll find you arrive rested and comfortable at your destination. Bring a blanket and a pillow if you plan to sleep; it tends to be cool on airplanes, so you'll need to combat the chill.
Sleep is a must for any red-eye or really long flight. If you're planning on sleeping, make sure you do not have the seats adjacent to the emergency exit, as they often do not recline.
Alcohol and Food
Sometimes a drink can calm those nerves. Take advantage of the free glass of wine on the way to Paris and try to relax. If you don't mind plane food (it's gotten better in recent years) eat your meal slowly.
If you can't stand the way airplane food tastes, you have dietary concerns or you'd just rather eat your own food, pack a meal and a few snacks. Even if you're not hungry because you've got butterflies in your stomach, try to eat something. You'll find yourself tired, ill and you'll increase your jet-lag symptoms if you starve yourself!
A warning to nervous flyers, that calming drink can have the reverse effect if you take it too far. Don't over-drink and don't drink before your flight.
Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
Take a few relaxation courses or learn some breathing techniques. Yoga can be a great way to relieve stress. Learn to control your stress and you'll have a happier flight. It helps if you know what it is about flight that drives your stress and anxiety. Try not to concentrate on the problem, rather work on breathing. Breathing deeply and calmly helps to disperse any negative feelings. Sometimes a stress ball can help you to physically express your nerves.
Over-the-Counter Medication
A dose of Gravol about 30 minutes before boarding the plane should help calm your nerves and your motion sickness. If you're lucky, it'll help you sleep until you get to your vacation spot! If I take Gravol, I'm out cold for six hours. You can't be nervous if you're unconscious.
Always read the labels and don't try a new medicine for the first time while flying: you can never be too sure when it comes to adverse effects. Don't mix alcohol with medication.
Prescription Medication
If your flying problem is severe, speak to your family doctor. They may be able to prescribe something more potent than Gravol to deal with your symptoms.
Flights of Fancy
There are ways to calm your beating heart. The world has wonders you can't miss just because the idea of flying gives you the jitters. It would be a sad thing to miss out on the incredible sights of Europe, Asia, Africa and the rest of the world you can't see by car, so take a deep breath and board that plane.
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