10 Tips for Coping with Anger

Anger, that toxic emotion. You can't just ignore it. You'll feel better if you let it go. Beliefnet members share their hard-won methods for confronting and ultimately releasing anger.

#1

Articulate It
"I decided to get to the root of my anger, so I started writing journals. I would write down why I was angry and keep on writing until I felt some relief. It certainly took a lot of anger out of my life."

#2

Let It Go
"In the end, it boils down to simply realizing that once the situation that sparked the anger is in the past, I truly have to let it go. That is where I rely on the training of my chosen spiritual path."

#3

Scream!
"Take a rubber hose or foam bat and beat a punching bag or pillows. While doing it just scream. This is the best!!"

#4

Don't Face It Alone
"I have been going to self-help mental-help group meetings for over a year now, and it has changed my life for the better."

#5

Age-Old Remedy
"Chocolate helps a lot."

#6

Channel Your Energy
"I personally do a martial art, called Taekwondo, and it has been scientifically proven that when you sweat your brain releases endorphins, which are like the happy hormone and you get really happy."

#7

Give It Some Thought
"When I get angry, I seclude myself, sit in my beanbag chair and punch, pinch, bite, whatever, 'til I feel better. Then I relax in the chair and really give the matter a good think-over."

#8

Reconnect With Nature
"I used to put on some really loud music and sing my lungs out 'til I was practically hoarse. I now go out and tend my garden, with great love. Being in connection with nature is a wonderful way to change your vibrations and release negativity while absorbing positivity."

#9

Don't Let It Consume You
"Tai Chi and Yoga are very helpful to me. Also meditating on how to just let the anger go. Anger is a toxic substance, and will eat you alive."

#10

Forgive
"For me, anger and past pain go hand in hand. Holding on to anger is self-imprisonment. The key is forgiveness...not easy, but within it is freedom."