HOW TO MENTALLY PREPARE FOR SKYDIVING

The idea of leaping out of a plane may feel like a daunting task and can evoke a mix of excitement and apprehension. Beyond the physical aspects, skydiving can be an emotionally challenging journey, stirring up feelings you may have never encountered before. Why? Because skydiving is often associated with risk, however, with the right mental and emotional preparation, even first-time skydivers can overcome their fear and anxieties – and they do all the time! So, how do you prepare yourself for skydiving? We’ve got the tools you need to take that leap of faith, soar to new heights, and discover your strength within.

If you’re wondering, “Why am I so scared of skydiving?” – trust us, you are not alone in that feeling. Even seasoned skydivers still get fearful from time to time. We’re here to tell you that it is perfectly normal to feel scared when considering going skydiving. However, it is important to remember that skydiving is a highly-regulated sport with strict safety protocols and backup systems in place should anything go awry.

Skydive STL ensures that all instructors are highly trained, United States Parachute Association (USPA) certified professionals with an abundant amount of experience and thousands of training jumps. The instructors will guide you through the entire skydiving process, ensuring you feel safe and comfortable along the way. Ask yourself what is the root of your fear – you may find that there are many helpful ways that skydiving can help you overcome that fear. And just know that everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear.

Skydiving can be a daunting experience for anyone, especially those with anxiety. However, many people with anxiety have successfully completed a skydive and found it to be a transformative experience! If you have anxiety, skydiving can be a perfect opportunity to challenge your fears and expand your comfort zone.

The thrill and benefits from the adrenaline rush can help override anxious thoughts, leading to a sense of accomplishment and increased self-confidence. Leaning into your instructor and discussing your concerns might help to calm your nerves before skydiving. If you have severe anxiety or panic disorder, you should seek professional advice from a mental health professional before deciding to skydive – they can help you evaluate any potential risks and/or benefits of skydiving based on your unique diagnosis.

Here are a few tips on how to mentally prepare for skydiving and get a grip on any skydiving anxiety:

1. Check the Facts

Before scheduling your skydive, do some research first to get a sense of what to expect for your first skydive and to look up the stats. Rumors do float around, but luckily there are hard facts out there to curb your confusion when it comes to skydiving safety. Once you do your research, you might find that skydiving is less dangerous as you may think! Learning about the skydiving process, safety procedures, and skydiving equipment will help alleviate concerns, build trust, and prepare you for skydiving.

2. Visualize Skydiving Success

Practicing visualization techniques might feel a little weird at first, but can be very helpful when mentally preparing for your skydive. Picture yourself having the time of your life, feeling the freedom of freefall, posing for the camera, sensing the sweet serenity of the canopy ride, and a successful landing back on solid ground. This can help reframe your mindset and reduce anxiety.

3. Trust the Pros

Trust the pros: the process, the pros of skydiving, and the professionals! At Skydive St. Louis, we’ve been jumping for a long time and are dedicated to the safety of everyone along with our unmatched customer service. We are passionate people that pride ourselves on our professionalism, making sure our customers feel safe, and sharing the adventure of skydiving with others. I guess you can say, we’ve got your back (literally)!

4. Focus on the Experience

Okay, we know this is a hard one — but try your best to channel your energy outward rather than inward. We mean, instead of fixating on the fear and the nagging voice in your head causing doubts, shift your focus to the unique experience that skydiving offers. Acknowledge your fear, and embrace the journey, freedom, and breathtaking views that only skydiving can provide.

5. Breathe: Woo-Saahh!

In the moments when you’re feeling most anxious (whether it’s when you board the aircraft or when it comes time to jump), one of the best things you can do to calm your nerves is to breathe. Taking nice, controlled breaths in through your nose, feeling your belly expand, then back out through your mouth has a way of “resetting” your brain by giving it more oxygen. You can even say a mantra in your head like “I am calm” or “I feel the fear, and I will persevere.” You got this!

6. Bring a Buddy!

As humans, we generally look to others for comfort or to assess our own safety. Skydiving with friends who you naturally feel safe around can really help calm your psychological state. Having someone there to lean on, who can offer moral support, and maybe even lighten the mood with a few jokes, is a great way to lower your stress levels and stay focused. Besides, you’ll create unforgettable memories together that you’ll cherish for a lifetime!

Let us help you mentally prepare for your skydiving adventure – give us a call for any questions you may have or to book your jump with Skydive STL! Blue skies.