Yoga For Anger Management

Week- 1 Module 1:

Introduction to Yoga for Anger Management

Learning Objectives:

• To Understand the concept of stress according to yoga

• To understand the origin of yoga from both eastern and western perspective
• To know the ways in nutshell, how yoga helps in mitigating anger

My dear brothers and sisters, in this module of introduction to yoga for anger management. Let
us understand the concept of yoga through a verse from Bhagavat -Gita

dhyāyato viṣhayān puṁsaḥ saṅgas teṣhūpajāyatesaṅgāt sañjāyate kāmaḥ kāmāt krodho

’bhijāyate

According to the Bhagvat Gita and Yoga philosophy, anger arises from attachment and desires.
When we constantly think about an object, or event, attachment develops, leading to desires. If
these desires are unfulfilled, anger arises. In western perspective, anger is seen as a strong and
intense emotional state in response to a perceived provocation, threat or hurt. It can lead to desire
for revenge or retaliation. Anger, along with the other negative emotions like greed, jealousy and
hatred has become a challenge in our modern society. It affects various aspects of our lives,
including education, health and social relationships. Anger is associated with stress and can
trigger physical and mental health issues sucha as Hypertension, anxiety and other NCD’s and
even Cancer. Therefore, Anger is a powerful and intense emotional state that affects individuals
on multiple levels, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In this comprehensive
exploration, we delve into the origins, mechanisms, and management of anger from both
Western and Eastern perspectives. By understanding these perspectives, we can gain valuable
insights and effective strategies for anger management.

The Origins of Anger: Attachment and Desire: According to the Bhagavad Gita and yoga
philosophy, anger arises from attachment and desire. When we develop strong attachments to
objects, people, or events, desires emerge. Unfulfilled desires lead to anger as a reaction. Anger
in the Western Perspective: Western psychology defines anger as a strong emotional response to
perceived provocation, hurt, or threat. It often involves a desire for revenges or retaliation.
Consequences of Anger: Anger has detrimental effects on individuals' physical and mental
health. It is associated with stress and can contribute to high blood pressure, non-communicable
diseases, anxiety disorders, and even cancer. Whereas Anger in the Eastern Perspective includes
the concept of Five Koshas: In yoga philosophy, individuals are not just physical bodies but
possess five koshas (layers): Anamaya, Pranamaya, Manomaya, Vijnanamaya, and Anandamaya.
Anger originates in the Manomaya Kosha, the mental body. 3.2 Stress and Imbalance: Anger is
seen as an imbalance and stress that affects the Pranamaya Kosha (energy body) and manifests as
disruptions in the flow of prana (life force energy). thus, the final goal would be to Move
towards Balance, Yoga aims to bring balance and harmony to the koshas, transforming negative
emotions into positive qualities. The practice involves sublimation rather than suppression of
emotions.

Integrated Yoga Practices for Anger Management:

Physical Level Practices:

Asanas: Physical postures to release tension, promote relaxation, and develop body awareness.

Kriyas: Cleansing techniques to purify the body and balance energy channels.

Sukshma Vyayama: Subtle exercises for joint mobility and energy circulation.

Breath and Energy Level Practices:

Pranayama: Breathing techniques to regulate and balance pranic energy.

Sectional Breathing: Deep breathing exercises to calm the mind and release anger.

Pranic Healing: Energy-based practices to restore vitality and balance.

Emotional and Mental Level Practices:

Emotion Cultivation: Techniques to consciously invoke, intensify, and diffuse emotions.

Kriya Yoga: Meditation practices combining breath, mantra, and visualization to purify the
mind.

Dharana and Dhyana: Concentration and meditation practices to cultivate awareness and
mindfulness.

Spiritual Level Practices:

Anusandhana: Daily self-reflection and resolve to overcome anger and cultivate positive
qualities.

Bhakti Yoga: Devotional practices involving prayer, chanting, and surrender to a higher power.

Meditation on Bliss: Experiencing and embodying the state of bliss (Anandamaya Kosha) to
transcend anger.
Integrating Anger Management into Education: Holistic Approach: Incorporating anger
management techniques into school curricula for overall development and consciousness growth.
Tools for Transformation: Teaching techniques such as temperament management, voice culture,
physical stamina development, memory enhancement, creativity development, and anger
management. Fostering Selflessness and Compassion: Promoting values of service, civic sense,
national awareness, and spiritual growth to counter anger-driven behaviours.

Summary:

Anger management is essential for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By
embracing insights from both Western and Eastern perspectives, we can develop an integrated
approach to anger management. Through yoga practices encompassing physical exercises,
breathwork, emotional regulation, and spiritual growth, individuals can achieve a state of
balance, overcome anger, and cultivate positive qualities. Moreover, integrating anger
management into education empowers individuals to navigate challenges and contribute to a
more harmonious and compassionate society.