Control your setting. If cramped quarters unsettle you, book a seat near the bulkhead for more legroom. If turbulence frightens you most, choose a seat near the wing, where there’ll be less motion. Also, always use the overhead air nozzle. “Keeping your face cool has been shown to make claustrophobic people feel less panicked.”
Fight dark thoughts. Wear an elastic band on your wrist. When negative thoughts arise, snap the band to dispel them, then visualize a safe landing. It also helps to glance at a simple note, like one that says, “Breathe. Everything will be fine.”
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
The AI arms raceTalking Point The fixation on AI-powered economic growth risks drowning out concerns around the technology which have yet to be resolved
-
Why Jannik Sinner's ban has divided the tennis worldIn the Spotlight The timing of the suspension handed down to the world's best male tennis player has been met with scepticism
-
Crossword: February 22, 2025The Week's daily crossword puzzle
