Well, I don't know if this will become a regular thing for me, but last time I got really upset with my son , I screamed. I thought he had already left for school, and I was at a boiling point. Frustration can really build up in you. So I let is out! It was hard on my vocal chords, but I felt a lot better. I also had a good cry. The only downside was that he hadn't left, and was waiting for his ride outside. Our house is very well insulated though, so I think it muffled it pretty well, but I still felt bad. But on the other hand, I know he does the same type of thing, so he probably understands, and it shows him that I am just as human as he is.
Next time I'll try it in a pillow though!
A nice long walk always works for me too. It 'takes me away', and I have a chance to calm down. I have some really great cds with traditional hymns that are jazzed up. I really love to listen to them, because they ground me. I pray, I listen, and I can feel God easing my burdens with every step. I think that's the best way to describe it. I give my anger, my frustrations all to Him, and when I come home, I'm back to being me again.
Great question. I've had some anger issues lately, and it's always good to reflect, and think about how you handle things. And compare that to the way you WANT to handle things.
Kid's are tough. You love them so much. It's always best to stay calm when dealing with any 'kid' issues, at any age, but it can be so hard, to keep those emotions in check, and handle things in the best way. I don't want to be a 'rent-bot' ( they call parents 'rents' -- I hate it), but I don't want to be an emotional mess either. I've learned that sometimes you need to step away. And counting to 10 might not be enough.