6 Unconventional But Effective Ways to Release Anger

Stuck in traffic again? The driver ahead seems to be moving at a snail's pace, and the red light is in no hurry to change. Your heartbeat quickens, and your grip on the steering wheel tightens. It's moments like these that make you wonder: How can you release anger in a healthy way?

Sound familiar? In this feature, we'll delve into the complex psychology behind anger and explore scientific methods for managing it.

Prepare for an intriguing journey into understanding how to release anger—without yelling at traffic lights or damaging your steering wheel.

If you've tried the usual advice and are seeking something more unconventional, we’ve got you covered. Check out these unexpected yet science-backed methods for releasing both immediate and repressed anger.

Trust us, they’re not just fun and different—they’re highly effective.

# Laughter Therapy

Picture this: you’re stuck in yet another endless Zoom meeting that could have been an email. We’ve all been there. The tension rises. But what if, instead of banging your head on the desk, you just let out a hearty laugh?

Believe it or not, laughter therapy is real. Laughter has been shown to increase the production of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.

It’s like flipping a switch to de-escalate your mood, providing a quirky but effective method for releasing anger.

# Pet Therapy

You’re standing in a never-ending queue, and you're almost at the boiling point. Instead of visualizing yourself punching a wall, how about petting a dog or cuddling a cat?

Studies show that interacting with pets can increase levels of oxytocin, often called the “love hormone.” This hormone has the magical ability to calm your nervous system and decrease feelings of anger.

# Rage Rooms

Imagine you’ve had one of those days where everything that could go wrong did go wrong. Instead of keeping it all bottled up, you find yourself in a room where you can safely smash things to bits—legally! Welcome to the world of rage rooms.

These spaces are designed for you to vent your frustrations in a controlled environment.

Some studies suggest that physical expression can be a valid form of catharsis, providing a release valve for pent-up emotions, including repressed anger.

# Forest Bathing

You’re scrolling through social media, seeing people live their “best lives,” and you feel a surge of envy and irritation. Instead of stewing in your feelings, why not take a walk among the trees?

The Japanese practice of “Shinrin-yoku,” or forest bathing, has been shown to reduce stress hormone levels and improve mood. It’s a serene method for those looking for a gentle way to release anger.

# Food Smashing

After a heated argument, you're feeling all kinds of emotions. Instead of eating your feelings, what if you literally smashed them? Some people find solace in taking a hammer to a watermelon or crushing grapes underfoot.

Though there’s limited scientific data specifically on food smashing, the act can offer a similar cathartic release to more physical outlets like exercise. Just keep in mind it's not great to waste food.

# Drumming Circles

Stuck in traffic again and ready to honk your way into more stress? How about drumming your frustrations away? Drumming has been used in various cultures as a form of emotional release.

Research indicates that group drumming, in particular, can produce emotional and social benefits, offering another intriguing option for releasing anger.