We know that to get angry is not a good idea. We haven’t included it in our ideal self-image.
When we get angry our whole personality changes. Our face becomes suffused with blood; our eyes blaze; our body stiffens with muscular tension; respiration tends to be interrupted or suspended; body temperature increases and in all we become generally uncomfortable and unattractive.
When we get angry we tend to lose our appetite, but that is not all. We tend to lose our friends.
So we have to find ways to keep any feelings of anger under control and diffuse our psychological danger situation before it becomes critical to demand an outlet in action – and such actions are always destructive.
When we begin to feel tense and are concerned that any negative feelings or thoughts may erupt, we can be reminded of the cottage wisdom just to ‘take ten deep breaths’. This advice still holds good and is a quiet and simple practise that allow us application at any time and in any situation.
If the trigger situation or condition is not related to a passing situation but causes involvement of deeper feelings there is nothing better that we can do than to go the gym, perform some vigorous exercise programme at home, or get involved in a sport.
When we are angry, is not a good time to talk. But singing is good if the situation allows it. Alternatively we can silently repeat a poem or mantra, or hum a melody.
Some people find that their anger is born of self centred feelings and thoughts and by engaging in some social or charitable work in helping others less fortunate, they gain a more balanced perspective. Sincere work of this kind allows no room for anger.
Others recall the old fable of Rumplestilskin ? and feel great release by going into a corner and stamping until their tension disperses – safely, except for the floorboards!
We can rationalize our anger. We can excuse our personal reaction of anger. We can defend anger as righteous indignation or hurt. But we all have to find a way and learn how to diffuse the mood, dissolve the tension. We must try to solve the problem that creates anger, an ugly emotion that threatens our peace and our mental fitness.
