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Have you ever dreamed of flying? Of feeling the wind in your face, the adrenaline in your veins, and the freedom in your soul? If so, you might have considered skydiving as a way to make that dream come true. But you also felt a pang of fear or a knot in your stomach. 

You’re not alone. Many people who want to try skydiving are held back by fear. Fear of heights, fear of failure, or fear of death. These are all natural fears, but they don’t have to stop you from experiencing the exhilarating adventures of your life. To experience a thrilling adventure, book a skydiving session around Paris.

Why are we afraid of skydiving?

Fear is a natural and healthy response to a perceived threat or danger. It helps us to survive and avoid harm. However, sometimes fear can become irrational or disproportionate to the risk involved. 

Skydiving can trigger these phobias, as well as other fears. These fears can lead to anxiety symptoms like sweating, shaking, nausea, racing heart, shortness of breath, or panic attacks.

Fear of heights: 

Skydiving means jumping from an airplane at around 13,000 feet (4,000 meters), much higher than most people’s comfort zones. Even if you don’t have a phobia of heights, you might feel uneasy or dizzy when looking down from such a height.

Fear of failure: 

Skydiving is a challenge that requires courage, skill, and trust. You might need to improve your ability to perform well, to follow instructions, or to cope with unexpected situations. You might worry about embarrassing yourself, disappointing others, or making mistakes.

Fear of death: 

Skydiving is a high-risk activity that involves many variables and uncertainties. You might imagine all the worst-case scenarios and how they would affect you and your loved ones.

These fears are normal and valid, but they are not insurmountable. They can be overcome with the right mindset, preparation, and support.

How can we overcome our skydiving anxiety?

There is no magic formula or quick fix for overcoming fear. Here are some strategies that can help you reduce your anxiety and increase your confidence before and during your skydive. It takes time, effort, and persistence. But it’s worth it. 

Learn about skydiving safety

Skydiving is a very safe sport, with a fatality rate of only 0.0007% per jump. That means you are more likely to die from a lightning strike, a car accident, or a bee sting than from a skydive. Skydiving gear is highly advanced and reliable. Also features multiple backup systems and automatic activation devices for emergency parachute deployment.

Choose a reputable skydiving center 

Research online or ask for recommendations from friends or family who have tried skydiving. Before your jump, visiting the skydiving center lets you interact with staff and fellow jumpers, offering insights into the atmosphere and service quality.

Start with a tandem jump 

For newcomers, starting with a tandem jump, where you’re attached to an experienced instructor, is the best option. This way, you don’t have to worry about anything except enjoying the ride. You will also get a briefing before your jump, where you will learn about the equipment, the procedures, and what to expect during your skydive. You can ask any questions you have and express any concerns you feel.

Use relaxation techniques

Before and during your jump, you can use simple relaxation techniques to calm your nerves and reduce your anxiety. For example, you can practice deep breathing, inhaling slowly through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth. You can also use positive affirmations, where you repeat phrases like “I am safe,” “I can do this,” or “This will be fun” in your mind or out loud. You can also listen to soothing music or meditate to clear your mind and focus on the present moment.

Have fun and embrace the experience

Finally, the most important thing is to have fun and embrace the experience of skydiving. Don’t let your fear stop you from enjoying one of the most amazing adventures of your life. Think of all the benefits you will gain from skydiving: confidence, courage, joy, pride, gratitude, or awe. And remember to smile and scream as you jump out of the plane and soar through the sky like a bird.