'I'm a travel expert - this is the best seat in the plane for anxious flyers'

As Brits continue to jet off on their summer holidays, those who experience flight anxiety may have a shadow cast over their travel plans. According to an expert, sitting in a certain seat on the plane can help to reduce the anxiety which comes with flying. Helen Wells, Clinical Director at The Dawn Rehab Thailand, explains that where you sit on a plane can significantly impact your comfort level.

To help reduce anxiety, it's recommended to choose a seat over the wings, as this part of the plane typically experiences less turbulence compared to the front or rear sections. Additionally, sitting over the wings can provide a more balanced ride, which can help soothe frayed nerves. "Between 33% and 40% of the population experience some form of flight anxiety, making it a common concern among travellers. However, by implementing effective strategies, you can transform your flying experience from a source of stress into a manageable, and even enjoyable, part of your holiday," Ms Wells explains.

"By experimenting with various techniques, you can discover what works best, and with practice and perseverance you can conquer your flight anxiety and travel with a newfound sense of calm and confidence."

The expert also recommends timing your inflight meals wisely, as eating at the right time can play a crucial role in managing flight anxiety.

It is recommended to avoid meals during the flight and instead eat before or after your journey. Eating before a flight can help you feel more settled and reduce the risk of an upset stomach due to nerves, Ms Wells says.

Getting some rest during your flight will also help to alleviate anxiety and make the duration of the journey feel much shorter. This can include bringing a travel pillow or blanket, using earbuds or noise cancelling headphones and wearing an eye mask.

In the event that a flyer experiences anxiety on the plane, the clinical director advises mastering the 5-4-3-2-1 technique which is one of the most effective ways to manage anxiety in any situation.

This is looking for five things you can see, finding four things you can touch, listening for three different sounds, identifying two things you can smell and focusing on one thing you can taste.

By actively engaging the senses, the 5-4-3-2-1 technique helps redirect the mind away from anxiety-provoking thoughts and towards the present moment, Ms Wells says.