Pissed Off! 27 Things to do When You Feel Righteous Rage

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Love Lesson: When You Feel Rage

I am feeling a mix of emotions from hurt to despair regarding the Grand Jury’s decision in Ferguson, Missouri not to indict the man who murdered 19-year-old Michael Brown, Jr. This man who fatally shot this unarmed teen, is a police officer, hired to serve and protect the community. Although history had not given me a reason to be optimistic about justice being served in this case, I still burst out crying when the decision came through.

There is civil unrest throughout the country as many people are pissed off at the blatant disregard for human life in this case and countless others. It’s easy to feel down, defeated, hopeless, and helpless as we look at our children and each other. We wave our metaphorical fists as our screens – TV, tablets, laptops, and phone. We rage on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. And the very brave take to the streets to peaceably protest.

For those who watch the news there can be much to feel angry about on any given day.

So when you feel angry or hurt because of the things that unfold in your world, what can you do?

Here’s a list of options. Feel free to add to the list in the comments. Last week we talked about healthy ways to manage depression. This list includes ways to manage your emotions in a healthy way, then how to express your anger and make a difference, and finally, how to give back. As an empowerment coach, I must remind you that self-care is always key. Taking care of your mind, body, and spirit, respecting your own body temple, leaves you healthy enough to love and fight again another day.

After Ferguson: 27 Things to do When You’re Pissed Off About What’s Happening in the World

It is healthy to acknowledge and feel your emotions. You have a right to feel angry. You have a right to your sadness. You also have a right to your joy and everything in between. This is your humanity.

4 Ways to Take Care of Your Emotional Needs.

1. Journal it out.

Sometimes we can feel so confused about a situation where it seems like human rights are being denied. Then we’re supposed to go on like nothing happened. Journaling, writing it out, a is a healthy tool to figure out exactly what you’re feeling. Punctuation and grammar don’t matter here. This is just for you. Set a timer for 20 minutes and just free-write.

2. Emotional Freedom Technique.

EFT Tapping which uses affirmative statements is a wonderful self-soothing technique. I use EFT as a technique with my one-on-one coaching clients and with myself. I make EFT support videos as do many other practitioners. Do a YouTube search for EFT for anger or whatever uncomfortable emotion you’re feeling and find a video that resonates with you. Then just tap along for emotional relief. Meditation and yoga are also incredible self-care.

3. Work out your body.

Moving your body is a healthy anger management technique. Many of us turn our rage inward or outward on the people closest to us. Instead of doing this, move, move, move. Run, grab kettlebells, or turn up the radio and dance. This may seem like an irrelevant thing to do when you’re angry, but remember, you have to heal yourself first to make a difference.

4. Talk to a Counselor.

If you feel distress, it is healthy to talk to family members or friends. For additional support, don’t be afraid to reach out to a therapist, coach, clergy member or other counselor.

Until lions tell their own stories, tales of the hunt will glorify the hunter. As Zora Neale Hurston put it, “If you are silent about your pain, they’ll kill you and say you enjoyed it.” If you are angry, speak your piece. Many laws on the books from drunk drivers to voters rights, came from activist channeling righteous rage.

14 Ways to Speak Your Peace.

Write an Op Ed to your local paper.
Blog about the changes you want.
Be an activist. Protest. March. Speak.
Make videos about your POV.
Run for office.
Write letters to your local politicians.
Work to change the laws.
Wear a pin or button. The virtual version is a social media icon or banner.
Boycott.
File a lawsuit.
Create a rally or awareness event with signs expressing your discontent.
Use art to express your voice.
Go on strike to protest workplace situations.
Hold a candlelight vigil.

One cure for feeling hopeless is to support others in our community or abroad who are in need of help.

9 Ways to Channel Your Anger by Giving Back.

Raise funds to support a cause you believe in.
Start a petition.
Volunteer to serve in your local fire and police departments.
Give time to those less fortunate.
Raise the energy and vibration overall by taking part in positive activities.
Come up with new ways to help empower underserved communities.
Start a reading or study group at a local hospital or prison.
Give money to charitable organizations.
Start your own support group or organization.

You are worthy. You have a right to be. Your life matters. Tell your stories. Feel your emotions. Speak your truth. Be not silenced.

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Catch up on Abiola’s Love Class

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Passionate Living Coach Abiola Abrams is the author of “The Sacred Bombshell Handbook of Self-Love,” nominated for an African American Literary Award in self-help. She gives extraordinary women inspiring advice on healthy relationships, self-esteem and getting the love we deserve. You’ve seen her love interventions in magazines from Essence to Ebony and on shows from MTV’s “Made” to the CW Network’s “Bill Cunningham Show.” Abiola is also the creator of the African Goddess Affirmation Cards. Tweet @abiolaTV.

Categories: Culture, MommyNoire, Politics