We’ve all experienced moments of anger, but have you ever stopped to consider what it truly costs you? In the hustle and bustle of modern life, especially for Millennials navigating the complexities of work, relationships, and personal growth, understanding the impact of anger is crucial. In his book The Tibetan Art of Healing: An Inner Medicine for Body and Mind Balance, Dr. Lobsang Tenzin sheds light on the often overlooked consequences of becoming angry and offers wisdom on maintaining equilibrium.
The 7 losses incurred by anger
When you become angry, it’s not just an emotional outburst; it has tangible effects on various aspects of our lives. Dr. Tenzin identifies seven key areas where we pay the price:
1. Time
Anger consumes your precious moments, leaving you less time for productive activities.
2. Health
The stress response to anger can harm your physical well-being.
3. Nutrition
Vital nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C, and B vitamins are depleted during episodes of anger.
4. Mood
A good mood can be challenging to maintain in the face of anger, affecting your happiness.
5. Opportunities
Being angry can cause us to miss out on positive opportunities, especially if we’re too consumed to notice them.
6. Relationships
Harmonious relationships can be damaged in moments of anger, sometimes irreparably.
7. Finances
Rash decisions made in anger, such as breaking a costly smartphone or making a poor investment choice, can lead to financial loss.
Prevention over cure: Managing anger before it strikes
Ancient wisdom suggests that the best way to handle anger is to prevent it before it arises. While some people try to stop it just as it’s about to surface, those who struggle with emotional control often have to deal with the aftermath. To maintain health — a balance of small fortunes and misfortunes — we must replenish lost nutrients and repair any damaged relationships later. But first, we must focus on restoring our well-being.
The healing power of walking and stretching
I recommend two highly effective methods for recovering from anger: walking and stretching exercises. Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, touted the benefits of walking, advocating for at least 7,500 steps a day to prevent various ailments, including insomnia, metabolic syndrome, dementia, and depression.
Walking not only boosts creativity and problem-solving abilities, particularly for those in innovative fields like technology, but it also alleviates stress and anger, improving mood. A brisk walk of over 30 minutes can stimulate dopamine release, enhancing metabolism and immune function.
Yoga: Balancing the body and mind
The interconnectedness of your physical, mental, and spiritual health cannot be overstated. Focusing on one aspect can bring benefits to the whole. For instance, nurturing a peaceful mind can help balance hormones and the autonomic nervous system. Many emotional issues stem from misunderstandings and prejudices; by cultivating wisdom and mindfulness, you can regain a correct understanding of life and the ability to perceive happiness.
Embracing inner medicine for a balanced life
Millennials are known for their pursuit of wellness and balance, and the insights from Tibetan healing techniques offer a valuable guide. By recognizing the costs of anger and adopting preventive measures like walking and mindfulness, you can protect your time, health, relationships, and finances. It’s about making conscious choices to foster a harmonious life, both within and without.
In an era where mental health is as important as physical health, taking the time to understand and manage your emotions is not just wise — it’s essential. So the next time you feel anger rising, remember the seven losses and choose a path of balance and well-being. Your future self will thank you for it.
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