Don’t Let Your Anger Get Away From You!

Anger is a common emotion that most people experience periodically. However, sometimes anger can turn destructive and lead to a variety of unhealthy behaviors. It can also undermine your quality of life and strongly compromise your feelings of well-being. If your anger has been taking a toll on your life and relationships, it may be time to explore some anger management techniques. Although anger may be an inevitable emotion you have to contend with from time to time, you don’t have to let it rule your life and actions.

Take Time Out

When you’re angry, it can be very difficult not to lash out in some way you may regret later. Before acting on your anger, give yourself a 20-minute time-out. Walk the dog or sit quietly alone in a room. Time may give your anger a chance to subside and also allow you to settle into a reasonable pattern of thought. In this way, you’ll be able to better cope with the issue rather than succumb to a tirade. Some people find that meditating, clearing the mind of all thought, is a helpful way to diffuse a period of anger.

Exercise  

As you exercise, your body produces endorphins, feel-good hormones that enhance your physical body as well as your mental health. By exercising on a regular basis, you may be able to ward off angry responses or prevent your anger from festering too long in your mind. Vigorous exercises like running, biking, and aerobics are physically demanding, which ideally draws your mental focus away from anger. Once your exercise session is complete, you can return to the thoughts that angered you and likely have a better outlook on the situation.

Relax

If you’re not able to exercise when you feel anger welling up, consider doing something you find incredibly relaxing, like taking a bubble bath, practicing yoga, or listening to soothing music. By pampering yourself, you may be able to self sooth and drive some of the intense anger you’re feeling away. It may also help to visit a relaxing setting like a botanical garden or a good friend’s home. Although you can’t always relax anger away, you may be able to lessen its severity by trying some of these activities.

Talk to a Counselor

Sometimes your problems may feel too difficult to solve on your own–or at least solve quickly. Chronic stress and routine frustration can lead you to feel as though you’re perpetually angry at the people in your life and in life in general. A counselor can help you sort through your problems so that you can find proactive solutions. You can also learn about other strategies designed to help you control your anger and minimize outbursts that could lead to negative consequences at work or in your personal relationships. Call us or stop by for an appointment.

Fortunately, you don’t have to let anger rule your life when you adopt strategies that allow you to better manage this volatile emotion. Keep these tips in mind the next time you feel anger welling up. They can definitely enhance your well-being, and in time, they may help you create a new pattern of working through negative emotions.