From toddlers and their temper tantrums to impatient drivers in a traffic jam, anger is a universal emotion.
Anger tends to have a bad rap, but it can serve an important purpose, saysGoodTherapy.
However, when not handled in healthy ways, the fiery emotion can become toxic.
Identifying what sets you off can help you find healthier ways to deal.
Cognitive distortions or, put simply, faulty thinking patterns fuel negativity, according toPsych Central.
Learning to question your thoughts may tone down your temper and encourage you to see the bigger picture.
Ask yourself questions like: Am I choosing to only see the negative and not the positive?
Is my thought based on a fact or an assumption?
Could I be taking something personally that isn’t actually about me?
Distancing yourself from your thoughts offers a chance to reflect before you react.
Turn to your favorite calming activities, like taking a warm bath or watching a favorite sitcom.
Ideally, distractions require your full attention so you’re able to briefly detach from your anger.
Additionally, healthy distractions don’t harm you or anyone else.
Keep in mind that there’s a line separating distraction and avoidance.
Your distraction should leave you feeling calmer and more prepared to face what upset you.
Exercise can also work to lower stress and manage anger.
If you notice yourself growing hot-headed, you might find relief by moving your body.
Take a power walk around the neighborhood or hit up aspin classto blow off some steam.
Finally, don’t overlook your breath.
Anger often causes the breath to become shallow and rapid, which can leave you feeling even worse.
Try focusing on your breath, inhaling slowly through the nose and exhaling through the mouth, suggestsHealthline.
Continue taking slow, deep breaths until you notice your anger melt away.
Unfortunately, forgiving someone can be easier said than done.
If your anger is eating away at you,letting go of a grudgemight make you feel better.
Practicing forgiveness doesn’t mean you have to change your relationship or how you interact with the other person.
Instead, choosing to forgive just means that you’ve decided to stop letting anger and resentment control you.
Before unloading, ensure you’ve had time to cool off and reflect on what happened.
Then when you’re ready to start a conversation, take a calm and logical approach.
“Avoid making assumptions or judgments about the other person’s intentions or reasons for their behavior.
Briefly sound off, and then turn to other coping strategies to avoid getting stuck.
