Humans have sought anger management techniques throughout history. Recent research suggests that writing down negative emotions and physically discarding them, such as shredding the paper, effectively reduces anger levels. This method was found to eliminate anger almost entirely, contrasting with keeping physical reminders which only slightly decreased anger. The phenomenon is linked to the belief in “backward magical contagion,” where disposing of the physical object associated with negative emotions leads to their disappearance. This discovery not only offers practical benefits but also sheds light on cultural practices like the Japanese tradition of hakidashisara, where physical objects representing anger are destroyed for emotional relief.
To Manage Anger, Write Your Feelings Down & Throw It Away
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The ideas expressed here are solely the opinions of the author and are not researched or verified by AGEIST LLC, or anyone associated with AGEIST LLC. This material should not be construed as medical advice or recommendation, it is for informational use only. We encourage all readers to discuss with your qualified practitioners the relevance of the application of any of these ideas to your life. The recommendations contained herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. You should always consult your physician or other qualified health provider before starting any new treatment or stopping any treatment that has been prescribed for you by your physician or other qualified health provider. Please call your doctor or 911 immediately if you think you may have a medical or psychiatric emergency.