No-anger zones

Until a few years ago, people were allowed to smoke cigarettes even in public spaces. Later, several countries identified specific spaces where smoking was prohibited. This led to the creation of no- smoking zones in the interest of non-smokers. Can we not apply the same rule for anger, knowing well that it is harmful for us and for the people around us?

We can each make it a personal law that our home and workplace will be no-anger zones. Signs can be put up to convey ‘This is a No- Anger Zone’ at strategic spots at your home, office, shop, hospital, school and college. We do not get angry with those in a position of power in terms of age, role, authority or designation. Why not expand this to let everybody inside?

Step 1: Identify people with whom you often lose your temper. The moment you feel an urge to snap at them, pause. Step 2: Do not allow anger to come into your words or behaviour. Restrict it at the level of thoughts. Step 3: Remind yourself lovingly, ‘I am a powerful being, living in a no-anger zone. I understand they have a reason for what they did. I use patience and acceptance.’ Step 4: Notice your anger subsiding and eventually ceasing. Now talk to the person with patience. Step 5: Every week, move more people into the no-anger zone.

Establishing no-anger zones as a personal discipline creates a space for peaceful and open communication. It lets us conserve physical and emotional energy and, thereby, boost inner power.