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How To Overcome Air Travel Fear? – Hinduism Solutions And Practical Approaches

 Overcoming Air Travel Fear in Hinduism: Solutions and Practical Approaches

Fear of flying, like other forms of anxiety, can be understood through the lens of Hindu philosophy as a manifestation of mental agitation or the mind's attachment to perceived dangers. In Hinduism, the mind is central to experiencing fear, and controlling it can help conquer such anxieties. Hindu teachings provide spiritual, psychological, and practical solutions to overcome air travel fear through devotion, mantras, and practices focused on inner peace.

1. Understanding Fear in Hindu Philosophy

According to Hindu teachings, fear arises from ignorance or lack of understanding of the self (Atman). It is a disturbance of the mind (Manas), which attaches itself to worries or dangers. Fear is often associated with material concerns and attachment to the physical body. Realizing the soul's eternal nature, as outlined in the Bhagavad Gita, helps in minimizing fear. Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna:

"Na jayate mriyate va kadachin"
(The soul is never born and never dies)
(Bhagavad Gita 2.20)

This teaching encourages an individual to recognize the immortal nature of their true self, thereby diminishing fear, including the fear of air travel.

2. Practical Day-to-Day Solutions

Apart from philosophical insights, Hinduism offers practical solutions to reduce fear and anxiety in day-to-day life. Here are a few practices:

  • Breathing Exercises (Pranayama): Controlled breathing helps to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) and Bhramari (Humming Bee Breath) can be particularly helpful in calming the nervous system before boarding a flight. The steady breathing controls erratic thoughts.

  • Grounding Rituals: Offering prayers and performing rituals before traveling, such as lighting a lamp or incense, helps anchor the mind in devotion. Before air travel, consider reciting specific mantras and seeking blessings from family and elders to invoke divine protection.

  • Visualization: Meditate and visualize yourself surrounded by divine light or seated on a plane in perfect calm. Visualize deities like Hanuman flying through the sky, symbolizing fearlessness and divine protection. This can give a sense of empowerment.

3. Mantras to Overcome Air Travel Fear

Mantras invoke divine protection and channel the energy of specific deities. Reciting mantras dedicated to gods and goddesses associated with courage, protection, and removing obstacles can be highly effective. Below are mantras from deities connected to strength and protection:

  • Lord Hanuman (The Embodiment of Strength and Fearlessness)
    Lord Hanuman represents supreme courage, strength, and the ability to conquer all fears. He is known as the protector from evil forces and harm. As someone who soared across the skies in the Ramayana, Hanuman is a powerful deity to invoke during air travel.
    Hanuman Mantra:
    "Om Hanumate Namah"
    Meaning: This is a simple mantra calling upon Lord Hanuman for protection and courage.

    Hanuman Chalisa: Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa, a 40-verse devotional hymn, can bring immense peace and assurance, as it invokes Hanuman's blessings for safety and courage.

  • Lord Ganesha (The Remover of Obstacles)
    Before starting any new journey, Lord Ganesha is worshiped to remove obstacles and ensure a smooth passage. He brings peace to the mind and dispels fear.
    Ganesha Mantra:
    "Om Gam Ganapataye Namah"
    Meaning: This mantra invokes Lord Ganesha's presence to remove all obstacles and fears associated with travel.

  • Lord Shiva (The Destroyer of Fear)
    Shiva is known as the "Destroyer" but also the one who dispels fear and provides a sense of calm and security. Reciting Shiva mantras can provide inner peace during stressful situations like air travel.
    Shiva Mantra for Protection:
    "Om Namah Shivaya"
    Meaning: A simple yet powerful mantra, invoking Shiva to destroy fears and purify the mind.

  • Goddess Durga (The Divine Protector)
    Goddess Durga is the fierce protector who vanquishes evil and provides protection from danger. She is the epitome of Shakti (divine energy), providing both physical and emotional strength.
    Durga Mantra for Protection:
    "Om Dum Durgayei Namah"
    Meaning: This mantra invokes Goddess Durga's protection from all dangers during the flight, keeping one safe from harm.

4. Inspiring Stories from Hindu Scriptures

  • The Flight of Hanuman:
    One of the most inspiring stories for overcoming fear is the story of Hanuman crossing the ocean to reach Lanka in search of Sita. Initially, Hanuman doubted his ability to fly such a vast distance, but upon recalling his divine strength and purpose, he grew in size and courage. This story inspires faith and belief in one’s inner strength to overcome daunting challenges, such as fear of flying.

  • Indra’s Chariot (Vimana):
    Indra, the king of the heavens, is associated with the Vimana, or divine chariot, which flies through the skies. This symbolizes control over fear and mastery over the elements. Worshiping Indra before a flight can help invoke his blessings for safe and fearless travel.

5. Worshiping Ideal Gods or Goddesses

  • Hanuman: Hanuman is the most revered deity when it comes to courage and protection from fear. A small image or picture of Hanuman can be carried while traveling to remind oneself of his strength and fearlessness.

  • Durga: For protection from accidents or dangers during travel, prayers to Goddess Durga are highly recommended. She is the fierce mother goddess who protects her devotees from harm.

  • Ganesha: Lord Ganesha is always worshipped before the start of any journey, including air travel, as he ensures the removal of obstacles and brings peace of mind.

6. Additional Practical Tips

  • Surrendering to the Divine Will: Hindu teachings emphasize that everything happens according to divine will (Ishvara). Surrendering your anxiety to God, and trusting in divine protection, can provide immense peace.
    Quote from the Bhagavad Gita:

    "Sarva-dharman parityajya mam ekam sharanam vraja"
    Surrender unto me and I will protect you from all sinful reactions
    (Bhagavad Gita 18.66)

  • Keep Protective Symbols: Wearing protective talismans like a Rudraksha bead or sacred thread (Kalava) can provide psychological comfort during flights. Many travelers also carry images or small idols of their favorite deity for protection.

  • Daily Affirmations and Prayers: Before your journey, repeat affirmations of faith and protection, such as “I am safe under divine protection. I travel with the blessings of Lord Hanuman, Ganesha, and Durga.”

7. Importance of Faith and Mindfulness

Fear often arises from a lack of control. Faith and mindfulness practices teach surrendering to the present moment. Trusting in divine protection and focusing on one's breath or a mantra can bring the mind back to the present, reducing anxious thoughts about potential dangers.

By blending devotion, spiritual practices, and mindfulness techniques, one can significantly reduce the fear of flying, finding peace and confidence through divine protection.