Quick tips for cooling down
Ø Focus on the physical sensations of anger. While it may seem counterintuitive, tuning into
the way your body feels when you’re angry often lessens the emotional intensity
of your anger.
Ø Take some deep breaths. Deep, slow breathing helps counteract
rising tension. The key is to breathe deeply from the abdomen, getting as much
fresh air as possible into your lungs.
Ø Exercise. A brisk walk around the block is a great
idea. It releases pent-up energy so you can approach the situation with a
cooler head.
Ø Use your senses. Take advantage of the relaxing power of
your sense of sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste. You might try listening
to music or picturing yourself in a favorite place.
Ø Stretch or massage areas of tension. Roll your shoulders if you are tensing them, for
example, or gently massage your neck and scalp.
Ø Slowly count to ten. Focus on the counting to let your rational
mind catch up with your feelings. If you still feel out of control by the time
you reach ten, start counting again.
Give yourself a reality check
When you start getting upset about something, take a moment to
think about the situation. Ask yourself:
Ø How important is it in the grand scheme of
things?
Ø Is it really worth getting angry about it?
Ø
Is it worth ruining the
rest of my day?
Ø Is my response appropriate to the situation?
Ø Is there anything I can do about it?
Ø
Is taking action worth
my time?
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