Hey everyone, I feel kind of embarrassed to admit this, but at 25 years old, I'm really afraid of wasps. Just the other day, I had one fly into my room, and I had to ask my mom to help me deal with it using an electric racket—how humiliating! ? I don't really know why I panic so much. I can handle them in videos, and they don't bother me at gigs, but when they buzz around me, it's like my body just goes into fight or flight mode. I'm curious to know how fellow gardeners deal with this—how do you manage to sit outside and have a chat when there's a wasp hovering nearby? Any tips for calming down or dealing with them in general would be greatly appreciated!
2 Answers
Honestly, therapy could really help if you’re open to it. I’ve never been stung by a wasp, but I think it’s mostly about education and exposure. I teach my kids to respect them instead of fearing them. When they land near me, I try to stay calm rather than swatting at them; that usually makes them freak out. Getting stung isn’t as bad as you think; it’s just a little sting, and most times it’ll just hurt for a few minutes—way less painful than some DIY disasters!
I totally relate, I used to have a horrible fear of wasps, especially since I am allergic. At first, I couldn’t even be in the same room with them, but then I decided to confront my fear. I started observing them from a distance, watching how others acted around them. Over time I realized they’re not really out to get us; they just want to do their thing. Now, when I see one, I try to stay calm and remind myself they're more interested in foraging than bothering me. Breathing exercises help too—deep breaths in and out can really make a difference!
That’s solid advice! But how do you stay calm when they’re buzzing right next to you?