How to Take Control of Your Anger
By Sandy Schroeder
In today's world it is easy to have a short fuse. Some days seem to come loaded with frustration. As you face the day, you may feel anger building if your family refuses to cooperate, work awaits, and phone calls pile up.
Staying cool can be a real challenge. The Mayo Clinic tells us anger is a normal, healthy emotion, but it needs positive channels. When it flares up and spirals into uncontrolled rage, health and relationships suffer. Often it is way too easy to say things that should never be said.
Think about how often you are angry, and what triggers your anger. If your anger is creating problems at work or at home, here are some ways to regain control.
Pause before you speak - When you feel like yelling, take a deep breath and count to 10. Do whatever is needed to avoid lashing out or taking actions that you may regret.
When you are calm, say what made you angry - Keep it short and clear without assertive overtones. If your kids did not pick up their rooms or your friend failed to keep a promise, just simply say what happened and why it upset you. When no one is yelling, it's easier to sort things out.
Use a short break to regroup - Everything may look different when you step away. When you simply cannot contain your anger one more minute, head outside for a short run or walk around the block. If every day is frustrating, set aside a few minutes in the morning or afternoon to sit quietly and regroup.
Ease the tension with humor - If you can see the funny side of life, everyone may benefit. My youngest son had a knack for seeing the humor in every situation and perfect timing. Often he turned anger into giggles with a simple funny remark. Find new ways to relax - Consider yoga or meditation to stay calm. Use your breath to ease your mind and your body. Find a quiet spot and inhale and exhale to the count of five. Or use your favorite music to lighten the day and mellow out. As you take care of yourself, it will be easier to meet the challenges that come up.
Burn off the anger with exercise - When anger refuses to go away, biking, hiking or long walks may become useful tools to absorb some of your frustration.
Let your anger go - When anger crowds everything else out, it can take over and hamper your work, ruin relationships, and make everything more difficult. Find out how useful forgiveness can be.
If anger continues to be a challenge, you may want to see a mental health specialist to regain your balance and avoid hurting those around you.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Spring, Tex.