Overcoming Fear of Flying with Reiki

This is inspired by a recent Reiki session I did for a friend who has struggled with air travel for a long time. For many people, the idea of stepping onto a plane brings more dread than excitement. Whether it’s the fear of crashing, being confined in a small space, or simply feeling out of control, fear of flying—also known as aviophobia—is surprisingly common. Symptoms can range from mild unease to full-blown panic attacks and might include sweating, nausea, a racing heart, or obsessive worry in the days leading up to a flight. If this sounds familiar, know that you’re not alone—and there are gentle, holistic ways to manage this fear, one such method being Reiki. 

Here are some of the ways Reiki can support you if you’re dealing with fear of flying:

Reduces Anxiety and Calms the Nervous System – Reiki is known for its calming effects. A session before your flight can help soothe pre-travel jitters and reduce the overall feeling of anxiety. Many people report a deep sense of peace after just one session.

Restores Energy Balance – When we’re in fear, our energy system can become blocked or unbalanced. Reiki helps to gently restore flow, supporting emotional clarity and grounding—two things that can be incredibly helpful before or during a flight.

Promotes Deep Relaxation – Fear often causes the body to go into fight-or-flight mode. Reiki encourages a shift into the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and digestion—bringing about a calm, restful state that can help override panic responses.

Supports Emotional Healing – Sometimes, fear of flying is linked to deeper emotional patterns—such as a fear of losing control, past trauma, or general anxiety. Reiki can help bring these underlying issues to the surface for gentle healing over time.

Can Be Used Before and During a Flight – Reiki isn’t limited to professional sessions. Many people use self-Reiki techniques while flying, such as placing hands on the heart or solar plexus to soothe anxiety mid-air. Even visualising the energy flowing can have a calming effect. The other option is to book a distance Reiki session with your trusted Reiki Master half an hour before boarding time. The caveat here is to come clean with your Reiki healer and the request. Are you simply trying to overcome the fear or are you also requesting to overcome claustrophobia? The reason I point this is out is because the session will have no effect if only one aspect is treated but in doing so, the other one is amplified!

Using Amethyst for Travel Anxiety

In addition to Reiki, amethyst is a powerful crystal often used to calm the mind and protect against negative energy—making it a great companion for nervous travellers. Known for its soothing, spiritual properties, amethyst can help reduce fear and encourage clarity, especially when flying triggers emotional overwhelm. Its gentle vibration supports emotional balance, enhances intuition, and promotes a deep sense of peace, which can be grounding and reassuring mid-flight.

There are many ways to work with amethyst while traveling. Wearing amethyst as jewellery—like a pendant or bracelet—keeps the energy close to your heart or pulse points, allowing for a consistent calming effect. On the other hand, carrying a small amethyst talisman or pocket stone allows for more personal, discreet use. Some travellers find comfort in simply holding it during takeoff or landing, or meditating with it pre-flight. Either way, whether worn or carried, amethyst can be a gentle yet powerful tool to complement your Reiki practice and calm the nerves in the sky.