Anger is an instinctive and an extremely destructive behavior and extremely destructive state of mind. The person goes out of control and says and does things unpleasant that would not have occurred under normal circumstances. A person’s anger can also inflict great pain on those who are at the receiving end. It is a negative emotion that can be controlled in view of the severe disadvantages and consequences of acting in anger. Anger Management is a system that deals with combating anger through psychological or therapeutic techniques.
Impact of Anger
Anger impacts the person physically as well as psychologically. When the person is angry, several biochemical changes happen in his body as the glands secrete different types of hormones that may harm the internal organs. There is an increase in the pulse rate and the acidity level also goes up. Stress, fatigue and certain ailments, intake of hot food stuff are some reasons that may cause anger.
The Anger Management technique is aimed at finding more things agreeable with another person than things that are conflicting. The person can be sensitized by learning empathy, forgiveness and stress management and optimistic approach to understanding and handling every situation. Anger management can tackle the incorrect projection of the mind so that better sense prevails and eliminate anger once for all.
Thus a well balanced person deals with any provocation with a positive mindset ignoring the temporary upheavals by looking at the ‘bigger picture.’
Ayurveda and Anger Management
Ayurveda is the oldest form of healthcare that addresses the disorders of both body and mind. Ayurveda addresses the three modes of human nature namely Goodness, Passion and Ignorance. Anger is categorized under the passionate that are both energetic and fiery. Ayurveda has excellent therapies that can transform the fiery nature into goodness. According to Ayurveda climatic conditions like hot and humid weather may also trigger the pitta aggravation that may lead to sudden bouts of rage and anger.
Ayurvedic approach to anger management acts in two ways. The first aim is to provide immediate relief and the other is to root out the underlying cause completely. The anti-pitta therapies are very effective as they cool, cleanse and nurture the body that produces a calming effect on the mind. The Ayurvedic system of anger management aims at a positive and enthusiastic attitude that comes from a stable body and mind.
Diet Recommendation of Ayurveda
The foods we eat are greatly responsible for our physical and mental well being. Ayurvedic diet is based on the principle that except a few all foods do not deliver equal benefits to all. Ayurveda emphasizes that the sex different types of foods based on the six tastes that comprises out diet. They are sweet, salty, sour, bitter, pungent and astringent.
Food suggestions in Ayurveda for anger management are mainly aimed at reducing the pitta dosha. So raw vegetables are advised though cooked foods are good during the cooler months and deep fried and acidic substances should be avoided. Chili, garlic and onion must be consumed minimally. Fruits are generally good as they have the cooling effect on the body. Acidic and sour fruits should be minimized. Beans are easily digestible in pitta conditions and so are recommended. Because of the harmonizing and strengthening nature of whole gains, they are good for reducing pitta imbalance. Coconut and sunflower seeds are found beneficial and other nuts can be consumed in moderation. Milk is good but other sour dairy products like yoghurt and cheese should be avoided. Meat should be avoided as it aggravates pitta. So a vegetarian diet is suggested. Sweet taste has calming effect and so controls emotions. Spices are neutral and can be cooling and beneficial as they can help in digestion of heavy food. Beverages like coffee and tea should be avoided. Drinking plenty of water is advised as pitta disorders need sufficient intake of fluids.
Lifestyle Recommendations
Pitta type people are impulsive in nature. They can reduce stress levels through lifestyle changes.
- Don’t over-reach. Delegate responsibility.
- Avoid working in conditions of intense heat, light, or bright sunshine.
- Take cooler or cold showers during hot weather.
- Spend time with loving family and friends.
- Listen to soothing and uplifting music.
- Take a massage with coconut or sandalwood oil.
- Do Pranayama breathing exercises for relaxation of mind.
- Exercise in moderation.
- Take time to enjoy nature.