Meditation tips for travelers who get anxious about long flights

 



Meditation can be a great way to manage anxiety during long flights. Here are some tips:

  1. Breathing Exercises:

    • 4-7-8 Breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds.
    • Box Breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, and hold for 4 seconds before inhaling again.
  2. Guided Meditations:

    • Use apps like Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer that offer guided meditations specifically designed for travel and anxiety.
  3. Visualization:

    • Close your eyes and visualize a calm and peaceful place. Imagine yourself there, focusing on the sights, sounds, and sensations.
  4. Progressive Muscle Relaxation:

    • Tense and then relax each muscle group in your body, starting from your toes and working up to your head.
  5. Mindfulness Meditation:

    • Focus on the present moment without judgment. Pay attention to the sensations of the flight, such as the hum of the engines, the feeling of the seat, or the movement of the plane.
  6. Mantras:

    • Repeat a calming word or phrase, such as "I am calm" or "This too shall pass," to help center your mind. Alternatively, you can chant or pray based on your belief systems. For example there is an Islamic prayer which people use before starting the trip
  7. Body Scan:

    • Mentally scan your body from head to toe, noting any areas of tension and consciously relaxing them.
  8. Listen to Relaxing Music or Nature Sounds:

    • Create a playlist of calming music or nature sounds to help soothe your mind.
  9. Stay Hydrated and Avoid Caffeine:

    • Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine, which can increase anxiety. If it is a long flight, eat less food and have more juices/fruits
  10. Grounding Techniques:

    • Focus on the feeling of your feet on the floor, the support of the seat, or any other physical sensations that help anchor you in the present moment.

These techniques can help you manage anxiety and make your flight more comfortable.

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