Do you tend to catastrophize or get stressed during patches of rough air?
Read this advice from the pros who fly for a living.
Turbulence is a very common part of air travel, but that doesnt make it less unpleasant.
Nothing is wrong with the aircraft.
Pilots are highly trained professionals and know how to expertly handle turbulence.
There are various reasons turbulence occurs: wind, changes in air temperature, thunderstorms, etc.
Focus on facts to avoid escalating into a state of worry.
Air turbulence is a common occurrence.
In most instances, turbulence appears more detrimental than it may seem.
The industry should communicate the rhetoric that turbulence should be expected as opposed to dreaded.
A tip that helps me now in my career in the skies is slow breathing.
Being mindful of my breathing by slowing inhaling and exhaling has been a game changer.
It helps me to stay calm during turbulence and also do my job.
Nottingham noted that Delta now offers meditation classes led by Peloton instructors as part of its entertainment options.
Find distractions
What better way to relax than by distracting yourself?
Explore the movies and shows on your seatback screen or download your own entertainment before the flight.
If youre traveling with a companion, talk to them about something unrelated to the flight.
The idea is to keep your brain focused.
I also offer them something to drink.
A smile and a distraction go a long way.
Fortunately, there are tricks to help alleviate feelings of nausea.
Nothing cures nausea faster than an ice pack on the back of the neck, she noted.
Ive had customers come on the plane in tears, she added.
I will whisper to them, Are you an anxious flyer?
They say, Yes, I hate turbulence.
I ask their seat number and will reassure them before takeoff and check on them throughout the flight.
She emphasized that flight attendants do more than just pass out snacks.
They are also trained to keep order and promote safety and to do so with kindness.
So dont hesitate to reach out if you need reassurance or even a moment of distraction.
An announcement from our captain during turbulence goes a long way, Howard said.
The captain will often assure customers turbulence will be a short period of time throughout the changes of altitude.
Of course, there are different levels of turbulence.
Some are more severe than others.
But, most times it is mild and for short periods of time.
My ideal technique is reassurance.
Passengers want to know that they are safe.
This understanding that trained professionals like Armstrong are in control can help ease passenger anxiety as well.
The flight attendants have the situation under control, she recalled.
Immediately, the passengers were calm and cooperative.
Take care of yourself
Alleviating your anxiety around turbulence begins before boarding.
It is always best to be well prepared for your flight, Howard said.
Hydrate the night before.
The better prepared you are makes for a less anxious flight.
This post originally appeared onHuffPost.
