When angry, count to four; when very angry, swear

When angry, count to four; when very angry, swear

Anger is a powerful emotion that can often cloud our judgment and lead us to act in ways that we may later regret. It is a natural response to feeling threatened, frustrated, or hurt, but it is important to learn how to manage our anger in a healthy way. One popular saying that offers advice on how to deal with anger is, "When angry, count to four; when very angry, swear."

Counting to four when angry is a simple yet effective technique that can help us pause and take a moment to calm down before reacting impulsively. By taking a few deep breaths and counting slowly to four, we give ourselves the opportunity to step back from the situation and think more rationally. This can prevent us from saying or doing something that we may later regret. It allows us to gain some perspective and consider the best course of action to take.

However, there are times when our anger may escalate to a point where counting to four is not enough to calm us down. In these situations, swearing can actually be a cathartic release of pent-up emotions. Swearing can help us express our anger in a more controlled manner, allowing us to release some of the tension and frustration that we are feeling. It can also serve as a way to assert our boundaries and communicate our feelings to others.

While swearing may not be appropriate in all situations, there is evidence to suggest that it can have some therapeutic benefits when used in moderation. Research has shown that swearing can help to reduce pain perception, increase feelings of empowerment, and even strengthen social bonds. In the context of anger, swearing can be a way to release built-up tension and express our emotions in a healthy way.