Blog The Secrets of Yoga

Yoga and Anger

Time and again anger is viewed as something tangible, as if it were a substance in our lives. The expressions “letting anger build” or “letting off steam” makes anger into something that can literally be built up, vented out, or fizzled out. The idea that anger holds a place in this world, in every human’s mind, is a nonexistent theory. Anger is an emotion that can be controlled, ignored, and separated from each person who the feeling affects.

Although there is no part of the body that harvests anger and it cannot technically build up, it is still necessary to discuss your feelings to release negativity from your body. Anger should be a thinking process, where you first decide what is bothering you and why, then how you ought to handle the situation. Anger can serve to be a dangerous emotion if not handled properly.

Anger can be an emotion on its own, or sparked by another such as jealousy, frustration, or hurt. There will never be a way to get rid of the things that cause negative emotions, but there are ways to control yourself when you have negative feelings. The tools that allow this control can be found through meditation and the teachings of yoga.

Many people view yoga as an exercise regimen, but it is so many other things: an ancient belief system, a method for positive thinking, mind-awareness, and the list goes on. Meditation is an excellent way to calm your nerves because you learn patience. It is not easy to sit quietly in one position while you try to free your mind of thought. If you learn to tolerate the difficulties your own mind creates, you are more able to tolerate the verbalized thoughts of those around you.

Meditation also teaches one to separate themselves from their emotions. You are not angry, it does not define you, but when the feeling is present you should immediately recognize it and send it on its way. There are so many other wonderful things that denote who a person is, and anger should not be listed as part of your make up.

Another great release of anger is through asanas. These yogic postures are held for specific periods of time, and require a lot of concentration which leaves no room for anger or other negative feelings. The pranayama, or special breathing, is essential during this time and relaxes the body if any tension is present.

Yoga refreshes a person’s entire being. This ancient practice has the ability to change people’s lives, and it does. If you are having a difficult time dealing with anger or negativity in your life, I urge you to try yoga.