In my fear of flying program, Fear of Flying?… Not Anymore!™, I address the key psychological factors that contribute to this phobia (which I’ve also discussed in two other articles here: Why Do We Fear Flying?, and Fear of Flying — How to Overcome).
One focus is on the concept of “normalization.” Our brains can be trained, through various exercises created for this process, to understand that flying is a normal, routine activity. Our brains can normalize routine situations, even if these routine situations involve risk.
For example, we likely don’t ruminate over the possibility of slipping every time we shower because our brains have become trained to expect that we will safely take our showers, based on many years of successfully completing this task.
But since most of us only experience flying on an occasional basis, if at all, our brains automatically go on alert when we think of flying.
Whereas showers are routine, flying is not.
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Site last updated: 24 May 2013
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I suffered for the past 8 years with an undeniable fear of flying. I hated it, I used to feel sick at the thought of it. However, I was recommended to start some basic hypnotherapy lessons which targeted my phobia. It took some time to start to take effect, but after a year, I am more confident about the prospect of flying as a result and it now means I can attend my nephews wedding in Barbados at the end of the year.
I haven’t heard of Mr Bunn, but I will look to see if he has published any blogs offering any further tips and tricks to control my condition.