When was the last time you felt steaming mad and ready to blow? On a scale of 1-10, low levels of anger and frustration are a 1-4, while higher levels of anger, above a 7, can feel intense, and may impair your judgment and decision-making abilities.

When we are aware of how we feel, and to what degree we feel angry, then we can know how best to act rather than to react.

With low to mid-range levels of anger, it may be enough to look at a situation and consider your options.  One option may be to accept what is, rather than how we want it to be or wish it was. For example, if you have a challenging child, it would be wise to accept and parent “that child,” rather than the one you wish you had. The same concept can be applied to relationships with a mate, friends and people you work with, as well as with other life situations.

If your anger level is a 7 or above, it is wise to hold off on making important decisions or driving. Take a time-out from the situation and do something physical, go for a walk, a run, do jumping jacks or stair climbing. If you need immediate relief, try washing your hands and/or face with ice-cold water. It can often shift the way you feel.

Love, Health & Happiness,

Phyllis