5 Ways To Get Over Aggression

Aggression can be categorized as one of the most misinterpreted human emotions. Originating from Latin, the word translates to ‘stepping towards’ or taking a dynamic step.
In Psychology, the term “aggression” refers to a range of behavior resulting in both, physical and psychological harm to oneself, others, or objects in the environment. A theory by Bandura also explains how it violates social convections and may include deliberate intent to harm.

However, this falls into the “Negative” form of Aggression which may include crime, workplace violence, bullying, school violence, domestic violence, rape, or sexual harassment, having a hostile effect on the well-being of individuals involved. Another form of Aggression is “Positive” or natural aggression, which is healthy and helps combat evil practices or injustice. It helps reject negative pressure and is a strategic way to deal with problems rather than sulk in sadness.

Negative Aggression can further be classified into more types:
a) Reactive-expressive Aggression, or verbal and physical aggression.
b) Reactive-inexpressive Aggression, or hostility
c) Proactive-relational Aggression, or aggression that can break human relationships.

It can be Accidental (aggressive behavior which was not intended to cause harm, ie. by accident), Expressive (aggressive behavior intended to express disapproval or frustration), Instrumental (aggression to own a particular object or position from the other individual), or Hostile (ie. Bullying).

The hypothesis prepared by psychologists for Aggression, calls it ambiguous and states that frustration always precedes aggression and aggression is the sure consequence of frustration.
There are various ways to tackle Negative Aggression, such as:

1. Practicing Anger Management Tips

2. Opting for Mindful Meditation or different Meditative Therapies which help release tension by relaxing and awakening one’s consciousness.

3. According to a study by the University of Oxford, Yoga or the different ‘’Yog Aasans” and “Vyayaams” are said to decrease impulsivity and combat aggression through increased focus and reduced anxiety levels.

4. Another great way to deal with Aggression is by embracing Ayurveda, which has contributed largely to reclaiming health by returning balance and vitality through mental and emotional spheres. It explains how anger and irritability are expressions of excess “Pitta” in ‘Mano Vana Srotas’ (channel of mind), and how anger can be managed by a supportive diet, lifestyle, and herbs.

One can build a pitta-pacifying diet that is grounded, nourishing and simple by avoiding hot, spicy, acidic, or sour foods, alcohol, and caffeine.
Practicing a routine has a stabilizing effect on the system.
Abhyanga, the ancient practice of self-massage with Ayurvedic Oils also helps calm the nervous system, rejuvenates the tissues, and promotes healthy circulation throughout the body.
Keeping the physical body cool by continuous intervals of rehydration can also play a significant role in reducing heat, and hence aggression.
Lastly, remembering one primary goal of Ayurveda is important. It treats people and not their symptoms. Hence, every individual may use different remedies that serve their system, considering factors like age, environment, personal weaknesses, etc.

5. One could also join different virtual cultural clubs with like-minded people, who believe in holistic development rather than popping anti-depressant pills.
Concluding this article, it can be said that Ayurveda is the future of Medicine and has highly efficient ways to deal with any ‘Doshas’ such as Negative Aggression.