Anger is more than an emotional outburst; it can cause significant harm to your body. Ancient Chinese medicine texts, such as the Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon), emphasize the connection between emotions and physical health, stating: “Anger harms the liver, joy damages the heart, worry affects the lungs, overthinking disturbs the spleen, and fear impacts the kidneys. All illnesses arise from emotions.” Modern science echoes these insights, revealing how getting angry triggers a cascade of physiological effects.
What happens to your body when you’re angry
1. Heart strain
When angry, your heart works overtime. Studies show that blood flow to the heart can double, causing irregular heartbeats, chest tightness, and even increasing the risk of heart attacks.
2. Liver enlargement
The saying “anger harms the liver” holds true. Frequent angry outbursts disrupt liver function, leading to stagnation of energy (qi) and even liver diseases. Research shows the liver may swell during intense angry episodes, contributing to discomfort and pain.
3. Weakened immune system
Anger compromises immunity. It triggers the release of stress hormones that can suppress immune cell function for up to six hours, leaving the body vulnerable to illness.
4. Lung stress
Rapid breathing during anger forces the lungs to overwork. Alveoli expand continuously without contracting, causing pain and discomfort. This is why people often say they feel like their lungs will “explode” during intense angry outbursts.
5. Digestive disturbances
Anger diverts blood away from the stomach, slowing digestion and reducing appetite. It can also disrupt gut motility, leading to bloating, nausea, and even ulcers.
6. Thyroid hormone imbalance
Angry outbursts stimulate excess thyroid hormone production, which can disrupt metabolism and lead to long-term conditions like hyperthyroidism.
7. Skin problems
Anger can harm your skin by disrupting liver detoxification, leading to toxin buildup. This results in dark spots, dullness, and other complexion issues.
8. Breast health concerns
For women, unresolved anger may contribute to breast lumps. Traditional Chinese medicine associates this with liver qi stagnation, which blocks circulation and leads to discomfort.
Why getting angry leaves a lasting impact
In addition to immediate effects, chronic angry outbursts can exacerbate long-term health problems. Traditional Chinese medicine views anger as a disruptor of harmony among organs, highlighting the connection between emotional and physical well-being.
Things to avoid when you’re angry
1. Sleeping on unresolved anger
The adage “Don’t go to bed angry” is backed by science. Sleep can reinforce negative emotions, making them harder to let go.
2. Driving while angry
Being angry impairs judgment and focus, increasing the risk of accidents. If you must drive, consciously widen your focus to avoid tunnel vision.
3. Continuing arguments
Persisting in an argument while angry often leads to regretful words. Taking a break to cool down, even for just 10 minutes, can lead to more productive conversations.
4. Drinking alcohol
Alcohol amplifies emotional outbursts. It’s better to find healthier outlets to process anger.
Managing anger for better health
Acknowledging anger and finding constructive ways to address it is essential. Practices like deep breathing, mindfulness, or taking a walk can help diffuse tension and protect your health. Remember, every outburst is like an internal earthquake, causing ripple effects throughout your body.
Translated by Cecilia
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