Traveling is stressful, and for those with a fear of flying, it can be debilitating. Even people who aren't afraid to fly have experienced that nervousness before a flight, or that uncomfortable tension when the plane hits bad turbulence.
Julia Cameron, an author who has a fear of flying herself, which she had to confront when she went through a period of frequent flying for work, has written a book, "Safe Journey: Prayers and Comfort for Frightened Fliers and Other Anxious Souls" with tips to help fearful flyers make the journey more comfortable. The book is based on her own experiences with overcoming her fear.
"I felt not very modern," she told the New York Times. "I thought, 'Certainly a modern woman who knows very well that flying is safer than driving a car should be able to overcome her fear and fly with serenity.'"
Her first piece of advice is to get a journal and write down your fears.
"The whole process of flying is a process of surrendering control," she said. "You're not flying the plane, the pilot is."
In the journal, remind yourself of the safe aspects, such as that you are safe, that the crew is skilled, and the pilot is sober. She feels that writing a journal and responding to your own fears allows you to act as your own parent, of sorts, comforting the terrified and childlike part of yourself.
Cameron also recommends taking distractions. She uses Kindles, video games, crossword puzzles and trashy reading.
"I never read tabloids except when I fly," she said. "I spend about $30 on magazines.
"The most legitimate-looking one I have is Vanity Fair," she said. "There's something vastly comforting about worrying about celebrities' cellulite."
Focusing on your packing is helpful. Because you are dealing with a lack of control, packing is a factor you can focus on and control. She recommends doing it two days in advance and using a list.
"I do think there's something comforting about it," she said.
To allow a state of calm and relaxation during the trip, rather than days of dread about the return flight, Cameron suggests creating a sense of before, during and after. She creates a ritual process to each step, separating them in her mind.
She also recommends bringing some small pieces of home, such as a photograph of loved ones, a candle or a picture of your dog. Cameron brings pinecones.
"Pine cones always make me realize the mystery of life," she said. "I still don't understand exactly how they work, but I love them."
Cameron has found these methods have helped her adjust to frequent flying, and curb the embarrassment she felt at being so uncomfortable on a plane.
As a last resort, if none of those suggestions work, you can always try a sedative. Some doctors will prescribe something light to patients with severe fears.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
