Fear of Flying? Try This Unique Self-Hypnosis Approach from Dr. David Spiegel
A Mental Game Plan for Overcoming Flight Anxiety, Shared by a Psychiatrist and Expert in Hypnosis
Image by Angela Lumsden / Stocksy
Mindset Trick to Ease Flight Anxiety, from a Hypnosis-Studying Psychiatrist
September 18, 2023
We all know that feeling when airplane turbulence hits you, and suddenly you find yourself gripping the armrest, praying to all the gods of aviation for a smooth flight. Yep, we’ve all been there. But did you know that there’s a unique self-hypnosis technique that can help you conquer your fear of flying? It’s like magic, but with less magic and more… well, self-hypnosis. So buckle up (literally), and get ready for a flight of humor, love, and lavender-scented relaxation!
The Comfort Zone: Where Neck Pillows and Soft Blankets Collide
Before we dive into the mystical realm of self-hypnosis, let’s start with the basics: physical comfort. Dr. David Spiegel, the co-founder and chief scientific officer of Reveri and a self-proclaimed Jedi of anxiety management, suggests that getting your body comfortable is the first step to conquering your fear. So go ahead, pack your neck pillows, soft blankets, and comfortable clothing. You might even want to throw in some stress-busting supplements because, hey, your mind and body are connected, and you don’t want your tense muscles to translate into even more anxiety. Trust us, a cozy cocoon can do wonders for your flight experience.
Mindset Shift: From Flight Fight to Flight Delight
Now that you and your body are on cloud nine (pun intended) with pillows and blankets, it’s time for a mindset shift. Dr. Spiegel wants you to embrace the airplane experience, not as a metal tube hurtling through the sky, but as a comfortable joyride. So close your eyes, take a deep breath, and imagine yourself floating with the plane. You are one with the aircraft, just like riding a bicycle – except you’re not pedaling; the pilot is simply an extension of your brain, guiding you through the whims of the clouds. It’s like having superpowers, but your superpower is the illusion of control. Ah, the power of imagination!
Probability or Possibility? Choose Wisely, Fearless Traveler!
Anxiety is a funny thing, isn’t it? Our minds love to amplify the what-ifs and conjure up worst-case scenarios. But let’s take a step back and think rationally. Dr. Spiegel asks you to ponder the difference between possibility and probability. While it’s possible to be involved in a plane crash, it’s not probable. In fact, statistically speaking, you’re more likely to have a fender-bender while driving to the airport. So embrace the logic, my fearless traveler! Remind yourself that anxiety surrounds a possibility, not a probability. And just like that, the jitters start to fade away.
Daydreams of Sunshine: Escaping the Takeoff and Turbulence Blues
But what if your anxiety is amplified during takeoff, landing, or the occasional bout of turbulence? Fear not, dear wanderer, for Dr. Spiegel has a delightful trick up his sleeve. Picture yourself somewhere serene and peaceful – a tropical beach, your cozy bed, or even a luxurious spa. Transport your mind to these calming destinations while your body stays securely strapped in the plane seat. It’s like teleporting with your imagination! This classic technique works wonders in various moments of discomfort, be it elevators, crowded spaces, or crossing scary bridges. Call it time travel for scaredy-cats (or scaredy-passengers)!
When All Else Fails, Seek Professional Help… or Become a Superhero
Now, these self-hypnosis techniques are fantastic for calming those pre-flight jitters if they’re somewhat manageable. But if your fear of flying is so intense that it rivals that of Batman facing his arch-nemesis, it might be time to unleash your secret weapon: professional help. Remember, superheroes also need a little assistance sometimes. So reach out to a therapist or anxiety specialist who can guide you through your journey from fear to fearless. You deserve to soar through the sky like the fabulous superhero you are!
The Final Destination: A Fearless Flight of Daring and Laughter
So there you have it, fearless travelers of the world. Conquering your fear of flying is within reach, thanks to the power of self-hypnosis. Find comfort in cozy accessories, embrace the friendly skies with a mindset shift, master the art of probability over possibility, and escape to daydream destinations when turbulence strikes. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Your adventure awaits, and with a sprinkle of self-hypnosis magic, you’ll be soaring through the clouds like a joyful bird, laughing all the way to your final destination. Bon voyage, darlings!
