release anger

We'd all like to be less angry at times. It's easy to get fired up, rally friends and build a case around how we've been wronged. But once the dust settles and friends have moved on to new drama, how do you let go of the anger you've built up?

1. thoughts
Positive self talk is the starting place. Decide that you are done harboring these angry feelings. Before your day starts, set your intention for the day: I am no longer angry with _____. Think about that intention for a few minutes before jumping into the morning routine. Throughout the day, remind yourself that you are no longer mad. The more you say the words, the more you will believe them.

2. feelings
Spend time doing things you like to do. Re-runs? Chocolate? Girls' night? What ever puts a smile on your face, do it. You are changing how you feel. More importantly, you are not dwelling on the negativity.

3. behaviors
Here's the hard part (that's why its #3). Start acting like you did before the grudge. Skip the tense shoulders, eye rolls and dismissive smirks--these all speak volumes before you even open your mouth. Walk into the room with a smile on. There's no way to smile and frown at the same time. Start talking to people about different topics (as opposed to the fire-fueling conversations you've grown accustomed to recently). Physically move yourself away from people who are trying to drag out the drama.

Keep with it! You're on your way to being anger free!