Anger is a negative emotion for our bodies. Physical activity and exercise can help reduce it and transform it into something positive.
Key Points:
- Anger is a natural emotion that we all experience from time to time.
- It’s important to manage anger properly, for example, by cooling off through exercise.
- Everyone experiences anger. It is a natural, healthy emotion that often manifests as an expression of deeper feelings such as sadness, fear, or guilt.
During times of stress, however, it can become overwhelming and problematic. This is where exercise comes in.
Researchers have found that aerobic exercise can help reduce anxiety and depression as well as hostility. Some studies even suggest that short exercise sessions can help prevent angry moods.
The Effects of Anger on the Body
While anger can be a healthy emotion, its impact on the body is not always positive. In Buddhism, it is considered one of the “three poisons of the mind” (along with greed and ignorance).
Due to its influence on the sympathetic nervous system, anger has been linked to atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
Negative emotions such as rage have also been identified as triggering factors for bulimic behavior. People who frequently experience anger have an increased risk of traffic accidents and developing type 2 diabetes.
Different Types of Exercise for Managing Anger
Exercise is a great solution, but when anger overwhelms you, it can be difficult to focus on a workout.
There are various approaches: some people prefer explosive movements like boxing or circuit training to release their anger.
Others prefer breathing exercises and lower their heart rate with mind-body exercises like yoga or Tai Chi. A combination of both—such as hiking in nature—can also be helpful.
Aerobic Training as a Means of Expression
Aerobic activity has been specifically highlighted as a means of reducing the expression of anger in both children and adults. Activities like rowing and treadmill running have been associated with reduced anger, depression, and anxiety.
Practices like Tai Chi Chuan and yoga can help lower blood pressure. In one study, yoga was even found to be more effective than walking in improving mood and reducing anxiety.
Walking offers a variety of health benefits, including better cardiovascular health and a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. It can also be a great way to release anger.
