August 25, 2007

Healthy Release of Anger

When I’m angry I vacuum. That back and forth motion helps me release negative energy and calms me down.


I like to make my own greeting cards so when the carpet doesn’t need to be vacuumed I get out some card stock and my paper cutter. Lifting the handle of that paper cutter and slamming it down helps me get rid of a lot of aggression.

What do you do to release your anger?

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Unfortunately, I slam doors shut - hard. I might go outside (after I have slammed the door). Not a good way to handle it. I want to get away from whatever is making me mad and be alone.

Pam Dyson, MA, LPC, RPT said...

Be alone to release your anger is a good start. This is a suggestion I made in a previous entry but I'm going to repost it for you. You might find this a healthy and helpful way to release your anger. It’s recommend by author and physician, Dr. Andrew Weil.

Relaxing Breath

“4-7-8 Breath”

1. Slowly breathe in through your nose to the count of 4.

2. Hold the breath for a count of 7.

3. Slowly exhale through your mouth for a count of 8. When you exhale make a soft “whoosh” sound by holding the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth.

4. Repeat three more times.

I have found this to be very useful and it’s something I always have with me. I use it whenever something upsetting happens – before I react.

Anonymous said...

Thanks, I need to recognize how upset I'm getting before I react so quickly. This will help.

Pam Dyson, MA, LPC, RPT said...

I'm glad this suggestion will be helpful for you.

The next time you are feeling angry pay attention to how your body physically responds. Do you tense your jaw muscles or your hands? Do you feel flushed, etc. Once you are able recognize when you are starting to feel angry you can put a plan (like the relaxing breathing) into place and it will become a healthy habit.