When news reports about road traffic and air travel are terrifying, and safety statistics are of no help, what else can you do to keep calm on a trip from point A to point B? It turns out, a whole lot. Here are five ways to reduce travel anxiety.
Look at Forecasts and Plan Your Route
Knowing the terrain or the necessary rest stops ahead of time can help tackle the anxiety that comes from confronting unknowns. Check the weather projections for the dates of your trip and on the day of, check traffic to make sure you can get on your way to your destination on time. Planning for difficult roads or air travel through bad weather takes the guesswork out of making arrangements for personal comfort.
Pack Your Favorite Snacks
Sweet treats, snacks, and other beloved foods are like little pieces of home you can take with you. Skip the diet; go for what your taste buds request while still maintaining a balanced meal plan of healthy foods for energy.
Meditative Breathing
Meditation has been shown to lower cortisol levels in the body, and you don’t need anything but yourself and a few minutes for this practice (it should be noted that if you’re the one driving, you should– of course– pull over before doing the following exercise).
Get into a comfortable position, close your eyes, and then breathe in slowly for four counts, hold for 2, then exhale to a count of 8. Repeat the sequence for as long as needed to become tranquil.
Listen to Something Funny
Laughter really can be the best medicine in stressful situations like this. If you’re riding with someone else, or on a bus or plane, try watching a comedy or other lighthearted film to help you forget your troubles. For drivers, there are also audiobooks and podcasts by comedians that will keep you feeling upbeat and awake.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Getting a good night’s rest the day before your trip will reduce mistakes and the anxiety that comes with them. Sleep can be hard to find the night before, so sleeping pills or a calming herbal tea can be used as a last resort. Remember never to mix any medication with alcohol.