How to Calm Yourself Down

We have all suffered from stress or anger at some point in our lives and doubtless we will again. But the key to anger and stress is learning how to deal with it and not letting it take control of you.

Wait.

Wait at least 10 seconds before you respond to the situation that is making you angry. This small amount of time stands between you and a logical response.

Get away.

If you can get away from the situation, even if it's just for a while, try to. Some time away from what is causing you stress will help you to regain some perspective and calm.

Restrain.

I know this is a really difficult one, but try to restrain yourself. You'll have to really force yourself to keep a lid on your temper, but it will be worth it.

Explain.

Try your level best to explain to the person/people involved why you feel the way you do, if you communicate your frustration in a rational, calm fashion, they may be understanding.

Whistle.

When we become angry or stressed, we take shorter, shallower breaths, this only serves to make us more stressed and edgy.

A very simple trick to help you control your breathing is to take a large breath in and whistle, a long uninterrupted whistle, this forces you to regulate your breathing.

Singing.

There's a lot to be said for singing, we all love to sing, even if we know we are terrible at it! Singing is another tool that forces us to use our bodies differently, and it also forces us to regulate our breathing. Try singing one of your favourite songs.

Walk.

Run, skip do any kind of physical exercise, it will help you to release some of your frustration.

Make some noise.

Slam doors, shout (to yourself), making noise is a great release.