Dealing With the Stress of Traffic and Stressful Tension

The stress caused by traffic can be so severe that you may not even bother going to work or the office. This may lead to more work, less motivation, and even job changes. You may even feel less inclined to visit friends and extended family because of the stress. Even worse, you might not feel like going to work because you're tired or stressed out. While traffic can be a major stressor in itself, there are many other factors that can intensify your feeling of anxiety and stress.


Slow-breathing techniques lower elevated heart rate
If you have to drive a car, breathing slowly will help you relax and reduce your stress. During stressful situations, you'll experience elevated heart rate and blood pressure. Inhaling and exhaling through one nostril and closing the other can help. Alternate nostril breathing, which involves inhaling through the nostril that you are not using, also lowers stress during speaking in public.

Deep breathing can calm the body by regulating the activity of the vagus nerve, part of the parasympathetic nervous system. This nerve controls many organs and decreases the heart rate and blood pressure. It also slows the digestion process, increasing feelings of peace. These neurobiological and psychological effects are powerful enough to dampen stress and anxiety. Moreover, these breathing techniques have been shown to improve heart health and help people clear their heads.


Dealing with unwanted advice from a passenger
Having an unwelcome passenger in the car can cause a stressful situation for you and your fellow travelers. Fortunately, there are some ways to deal with the situation. First, you can try a stress-relieving breathing technique. Slow breathing techniques can lower your elevated heart rate and blood pressure. Another option is to remain silent. Nodding in agreement may be the most effective way to diffuse the situation.