We do get angry,
facing life's situations,
struggling to endure,
the surging of our emotions.
Yet, we had to be careful,
not make matter worse,
our actions have consequences...
Even done for justified reasons.

So, we practice the ways,
to have these feeling go away,
and achieve the calmer demeanor,
required for our social function.
Some vent their emotions,
letting out inner pressures,
others go into rage modes,
smashing things, and letting loose.

But, contrary to popular beliefs,
researches are against catharsis theory,
for, blow off steam, had its reactions,
goes beyond reflection, into rumination.
As their arousal-boosting activities,
may have brought temporary reliefs,
but also would increase the tension,
supporting the cause, reinforces aggression.

So, the art of anger management,
lies in arousal-reducing activities,
be it slow-flow yoga, and mindfulness,
diaphragmatic breathing or muscle relaxation...
Taking a timeout,
rather than trying to vent,
would work the best for us,
by turning down the heat.

For, calming techniques ease stress,
robbing anger, of physiological fuel.

© Dr. Manish Rout