TIPS AND TRICKS

About to Lose Your Cool? Enlist Your Senses
Using your five senses is another simple-but-impactful way to remind your nervous system that, despite the surrounding stressors, your body doesn’t need to fire on all cylinders. Molly Dutter-Ansari, PhD, an assistant professor at Bradley University’s Online Masters of Counseling Program, says engaging each of your five senses can bring your body back to the present moment, where it’s easier to see reality for what it is (and make logical decisions instead of freaking out).
 
She suggests a simple exercise where you name one thing you can see, smell, touch, taste, and hear. Take a second or two and engage each sense. While you’re at it, take a few deep breaths. As you become more aware of your surroundings, your body should get the message that the situation’s not as dire as you thought — and you’ll find it easier to talk yourself out of the stress. 

Here's some more advice on what to do when you’re about to lose your cool.