Why Anger Makes Us Sick

Memory Pillow Repressed anger will often cause us to clench and grind our teeth,even during sleep. This grinding can wear down our teeth, causethem to break as well as cause pain and tension in our face andjaw. In addition, anger also triggers the release of cortisols andother stress hormones in our brain which may shrink the brain'smemory centre and ultimately affect our memory. When we say, "I was so angry I saw red," it's not far from thetruth. Anger can trigger ocular migraines where we get flashes oflight or jagged lines in front of our eyes, our blood pressurerises and there is an elevation of stress hormones in our body thatconstrict the blood vessels in our brain resulting in headaches.When our blood pressure soars it can lead to heart disease andstrokes. Holding onto anger and hostility takes its toll on the body. Whenwe are upset, our brain releases certain neurotransmitters whichreduce the flow of blood to our belly, resulting in the occurrenceof diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Other symptoms may include skinrashes, circulatory problems and even arthritis - anger can releaseuric acid into our blood stream which may contribute to arthritis. If any or all of the above-mentioned sounds familiar, then here area few guidelines to help you in reacting more positively in angercontrol and freeing yourselves from resentment and aggression. Our anger can often be a reaction to someone else's anger andfrustration, and if we learn to step back and control our ownresponse before we lose control and buy into their emotion, then wecan deflect the 'anger arrow' that has been shot at us. We can stepback with compassion and not react and respond by saying hurtfulthings or showing violence. Once the words leave our mouths they can never be retracted. Theold saying 'sticks and stones can break my bones but words cannever hurt me', is far from the truth, as words often slicestraight to the very core of our being. The next time you find yourself in a situation that will cause aneruption of anger, take a deep breath and repeat the word 'calm'three times, then step back before you respond, bearing in mindthat you do not have to buy into someone else's 'stuff'. Being aware of personal 'hot buttons' that trigger anger responsescan be very helpful. When you are faced with situations thatprovoke your anger, knowing and being in control of your 'hotbutton' makes the situation easier to deal with. Find ways to vent your emotion by talking things through withsomeone who is objective such as a friend, a pastor, or acounsellor. This way you can freely release pent-up resentment andfrustration. Learn ways to practise forgiveness, as anger can result inresentments which can be resolved through forgiveness. Be creative: if you feel angry at social injustice, get involved inpublic service, for example. It is very important that we find ways that are safe and effectiveto release anger. Sports, dancing, breathing, meditation and evenpunching your pillow will help to release that tense feeling ofanger built up inside. However, if there is no way you can releasethese feelings, then it is time to seek help from a professionalwho can teach you how to understand why you feel the way you do andgive you steps to address the underlying causes of your anger. Spa Elder Tip If you are feeling tense, sit in a chair with both feet firmly onthe ground. Take three deep breaths then rub your palms togetherbriskly and place them over your face for a few seconds. Thenmassage your face, scalp and the back of your neck. Stella Gray is the Spa Elder at Fern Tree, the Spa at Half Moon,with over 35 years in the spa industry.