Is a powerful emotion. If it isn’t handled appropriately, it may have destructive results for both you and your loved ones. Uncontrolled anger can lead to arguments, physical fights, physical abuse, assault and self-harm. On the other hand, well-managed anger can be a useful emotion that motivates you to make positive changes.
The physical effects
Anger triggers the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response. Other emotions that trigger this response include fear, excitement and anxiety. The adrenal glands flood the body with stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. The brain shunts blood away from the gut and towards the muscles, in preparation for physical exertion. Heart rate, blood pressure and respiration increase, the body temperature rises and the skin perspires. The mind is sharpened and focused.
Health problems
The constant flood of stress chemicals and associated metabolic changes that accompany recurrent unmanaged anger can eventually cause harm to many different systems of the body. Some of the short and long-term health problems that have been linked to unmanaged anger include:
- Headache
- Digestion problems, such as abdominal pain
- Insomnia
- Increased anxiety
- Depression
- High blood pressure
- Skin problems, such as eczema
- Heart attack
- Stroke.
Many people express their anger in inappropriate and harmful ways, including:
Anger explosions – some people have very little control over their anger and tend to explode in rage. Raging anger may lead to physical abuse or violence. A person who doesn’t control their temper can isolate themselves from family and friends. Some people who fly into rages have low self-esteem, and use their anger as a way to manipulate others and feel powerful.
Anger repression – some people consider that anger is an inappropriate or ‘bad’ emotion, and choose to suppress it. However, bottled anger often turns into depression and anxiety. Some people vent their bottled anger at innocent parties, such as children or pets.
Expressing anger in healthy ways
Suggestions on how to express your anger in healthy ways include:
If you feel out of control, walk away from the situation temporarily, until you cool down.
- Try to pinpoint the exact reasons why you feel angry.
- Identify the problem, consider coming up with strategies on how to remedy the situation.
- Do something physical, such as going for a run or playing sport.
The way you typically express anger may take some time to modify.
Suggestions include:
- Learn meditation
- Practice Yoga asanas
- Learn relaxation techniques
- Keep a diary of your anger outbursts, to try and understand how and why you get mad.
- Consider assertiveness training, or learning about techniques of conflict resolution.
- Take regular exercise.
People who are stressed are more likely to experience anger. Numerous worldwide studies have documented that regular or daily meditation and some form of physical exercise like hatha yoga asanas can improve mood and reduce stress levels.
The effect may be twofold: physical exertion burns up stress chemicals, and it also boosts production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, including endorphins and catecholamines.
Teaching children how to express anger
Expressing anger appropriately is a learned behaviour. Suggestions on helping your child to deal with strong feelings include:
- Lead by example.
- Treat your child’s feelings with respect.
- Teach practical problem-solving skills.
- Encourage open and honest communication in the home.
- Explain the difference between aggression and anger.
- Teach your child different ways of calming and soothing themselves.
- Find a trained Meditation Instructor. An instructor who is expert in Yogic teachings, who can explain what is actually happening when anger is present.
- Your doctor may also be able to give you some practical advise.
- The long-term physical effects include anxiety, high blood pressure and headache.
- Anger is a positive and useful emotion, if it is expressed appropriately.
- Long-term strategies for anger management include regular physical exercise, yoga asanas, daily meditation, relaxation techniques, and management strategies.
Wishing you Peace
Contact us about a Yoga Meditation class. Find out how this timeless practice can help you understand the root cause of anger and how to deal with it.
Namaste
