“Speak the truth, do not become angered, and give when asked, even be it a little.”~ Buddha

When you hear this word – what do you perceive?

This emotion can be overwhelming at times.  It can stimulate underlying things to resurface,  however, it is here to serve you. 

Does your body tense up, do you breathe differently? 

How does your inner being feel? 

Do you express it or allow things to fester internally?

I am a sensitive human being. When it comes to anger, I have been apprehensive to express it for much of my life.  I have neglected to honor these feelings.  This is an emotion that needs to be uncovered by many of us when left to stagnate it can cause an imbalance in the body, mind, and spirit.

Why Am I Talking About Anger?

After catching the flu a few times this year, I finally realized that I was not coping well with anger.  I have always taken on the “peacemaker” approach to life.  A peace-maker is the archetype who finds conflict challenging and prefers to avoid it.  After talking to a few friends, I realize that I am not the only one. 

Do women tend to suppress anger more than men? 

This could be the case however each individual is uniquely woven.  Why do we tend to keep silent when things bother us?  I do think there are men who take on the peace-maker role as well.  

When tumultuous situations arise, I often try to find the bright-side of the situation.  No arguing, raise of voice – or losing it!  However, is this the best strategy?  I am not sure.  I believe, it is important to really feel yours constructively. 

Allow your anger to surface, get bitter, stomp your feet, maybe even cry it out.  You are perfectly normal for having these emotions.  Once you feel it, the time will come when you’re ready to let go and release. 

“Letting go gives us freedom, and freedom is the only condition for happiness. If, in our heart, we still cling to anything -anxiety, or possessions – we cannot be free.”~ Thich Nhat Hanh

My belief is, we as human beings can have trapped emotions in our body.  When we don’t acknowledge our emotions it can turn into an internal illness. 

Anger needs to be set free.  I have read countless spiritual books over the years on expressing emotions.  For example, if we don’t deal with grief, sadness or anger it can lead to other ailments.  In the later part of my 30’s, I realized that I never really knew how to deal with this emotion.  I am at peace with this now.

When I was younger I viewed anger as something “scary”.  If one was to get angry it was not appropriate behavior.  “I would get angry at myself for being angry”- and still do at times. 

Has anyone else felt that before? 

I now accept my bouts of anger and let them arise.  Try to witness and be aware of yours before you react. 

Recognize your triggers and reactions.  Many spiritual teachings say that anger is something your anger needs to be loved.  If we can experience these emotions it allows us to move forward.  This emotion is truly when we heal our wounds.  

It’s time to nurture anger and grow through it.  If anyone has seen The Lego Movie, I am similar to the Unkitty character who tries to be positive ALL THE TIME!  You have to be real with yourself and authentic.  I would judge myself for being angry, as I am on the spiritual path. 

5 Healthy Ways to Express Your Anger Away

The message I want to convey is that being spiritual means to acknowledge all parts of yourself. 

Here are five healthy ways to express your it all away:

1. Meditate

Allow your mind to become still and connect with your breathing.  Meditation has many benefits for the mind.  Connect to the present moment, this is truly the greatest lesson. 

2. Journal

Journal your heart out!  Let everything that distresses you come up.  Writing facilitates understanding yourself.  It’s truly my therapy in times of need.

3. Exercise

Get outside in nature, go for a walk or partake in a peaceful yoga class.  The point is to let your energy flow.  Don’t keep it in dear soul.  

4. Cook

Lately, I have found baking so rewarding.  Bake your favorite cookies, make yourself a beautiful meal or anything that makes you feel good.  

5. Love

Love your anger, stop judging yourself. Remember to love yourself AND be compassionate to your inner being.  Find the blessing of your anger, let your heart soften.

“My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world.”~ Jack Layton

I hope that you can move through your anger with ease.  Feeling this way does not have to be terrifying. Keep in check with how you feel at all times.  You are evolving each day of your life. 

There is always a bright side to every situation.  Bless it, appreciate the fact you are willing to heal and move forward.  Always remember Anger is one letter away from Angel.  

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