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.
-
Mountainhead: Jesse Armstrong's tech bro satire sparkles with 'weapons-grade zingers'The Week Recommends The Succession creator's first feature film lacks the hit TV show's 'dramatic richness' – but makes for a horribly gripping watch
-
10 great gifts to give dear old dad this Father's DayThe Week Recommends Make his day with a thoughtful present
-
Seeing Each Other: Portraits of Artists – a 'riveting' exhibitionThe Week Recommends Pallant House exhibition offers fascinating instances of painterly reciprocity
