How I Conquered My Pre Flight Freakouts

Let's get one thing straight: I love travel...but planes? Not so much. The mere whiff of jet fuel used to send my heart into Olympic-level cardio mode. If you're like me, and "pre-flight anxiety" feels more like a

"pre-flight doom spiral", don't worry - I've got you covered. Here is how I learned to calm the chaos before takeoff and during flight (without becoming a full-time meditation guru), learned to overcome pre-flight anxiety, and actually learned to love to fly.

Did you know air travel is the safest way to get around? Statistically, flying is safer than driving to the airport while eating a bagel and changing Spotify playlists. Understanding how planes fly (and why they don't just fall out of the sky) made a huge difference.  Knowledge = Power = Less Panic

1. "Operation Chill" Starts Before the Airport:

• Arrive early - rushing creates unnecessary stress and can increase your anxiety.
• Avoid caffeine. (Yes, even the espresso that whispers sweet nothing to you at 6 am).
• Choose an aisle seat or seat near a wing - so you can escape imaginary disasters quickly (to.... the bathroom).
• Avoid alcohol. Contrary to popular belief, alcohol doesn't calm instead, alcohol will heighten your anxiety.
• Download a meditation app like "Calm" or "Headspace".

2. Breathing like a Zen Master ("4-7-8 Technique")

• Inhale for 4 seconds 
• Hold it for 7 seconds
• Exhale for 8 seconds
• Repeat until either calmer or asleep. (Both are WINS).    

3. Mid-flight progressive muscle relaxation: 

• Tense and relax muscle groups one at a time (if you've never squeezed your butt cheeks as hard as possible to stop anxiety, are you even trying?)

4. Distraction is YOUR best friend:

Turbulence? I don't know her. I'm too busy bingeing murder mysteries or listening to a podcast about ancient civilizations (strangely soothing). A good playlist, silly online games, or your favorite movie can carry your mind far, far away from imaginary engine noises.

5. Let the Flight Crew know:

• Your flight crew is trained in helping passengers (YOU) with flight anxiety.

6. When All Else Fails: Modern Medicine, Baby!

• If your anxiety is more "I might accidentally open the emergency exit door" than a little nervous, talk to your doctor. There's no shame in bringing a prescription wingman.

Final Boarding Thoughts:

Now, I've overcome my fears, and I love to fly. I walk on the plane like I own it, armed with snacks and a better playlist, chilling, excited with anticipation of what my next destination will bring.

Happy Travels