The last line before Zack de la Rocha spits the words “freedom, yeah right freedom” in his song of the same name, is “Anger is a gift.” This line has resonated with listeners for over two decades, and the words are still powerful today. However, the concept of anger as a gift seems counterintuitive. After all, anger often feels like a mixture of fear and frustration, and it can damage our bodies and souls. But while anger can be destructive, it has its uses. Here are ten surprising facts about anger, and how to use it effectively.

1. Anger is not inherently bad.

While anger can feel uncomfortable and even dangerous, the emotion itself is not inherently bad. One reason for this is that different people experience anger in different ways. Whereas children usually feel anger from the perspective of frustration – they can’t have what they want when they want it – adults tend to get angry when they feel out of control. Understanding why you’re feeling angry is the first step in using the emotion effectively.

2. Anger has physiological effects.

We’re all familiar with the physical sensations that come with anger – a rapid heartbeat, sweaty palms, and a burning gut. This is because anger engages the “fight or flight” response – a physiological system that decides how to respond to a threat. However, research shows that expressing anger is not always the best thing for us. When we feed off our anger, it causes us more damage. So it’s important to be wary of cycles that wreak havoc on our nervous system.

3. Anger can be motivating.

When we feel angry, we often feel motivated to take action. This can be useful when we’re trying to solve a problem or create something new. However, anger is not always caused by external events, such as an injustice or a lover’s betrayal. Sometimes, it’s caused by stress and overwhelm – when our body and mind tell us we need to cut back at work or find more time to relax.

4. Humor can diffuse anger.

One of the simplest ways to diffuse anger is through humor. When we’re in a heated argument, making a joke can help to break the tension and shift the focus. Of course, humor isn’t always appropriate – it’s not going to work during a hostage situation, for example. But it can be useful in less extreme situations – like when coworkers can’t agree on a project.

5. Uncontrolled anger is linked to heart attack and stroke.

When we can’t control our anger, it can cause more damage than just hurt feelings. One study published by CNN found a link between angry outbursts and increased risk for heart attack and stroke. This is because anger is a stressful emotion, and combined with poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking, it can put us at risk for cardiovascular events.

6. People are not always the triggers of anger.

While we often think of anger as an emotion caused by people, it can also be caused by our environment. Noise pollution, for example, can trigger anger even when we don’t realize it. When we find ourselves feeling angry and we’re not sure why, it’s worth paying attention to our environment and considering whether we’re getting enough peace and quiet.

7. Relaxation can combat anger.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to combat anger is by planning relaxation time. Just as we plan for work, family, and future goals, we should also plan for time to relax and de-stress. This can involve taking the kids to the park, enjoying a show with a friend, or even just taking a relaxing bath. When we forget to plan for relaxation, we often give rise to anger.

8. Anger requires examination.

When we’re feeling angry, it’s important to examine the emotion and understand its origin. What does the emotion mean? Are we distrustful of our partner, or are we simply feeling stressed and overwhelmed? By understanding the underlying issues of our anger, we can respond in a healthier way – such as by screaming into a pillow, pummeling a cardboard cutout, or writing a letter we don’t intend to send.

9. Aggression is anger in action.

Anger can exist as an emotion without leading to aggression. Aggression occurs when we act on our anger – such as by verbally assaulting someone or engaging in physical violence. It’s important to understand the difference between anger as an emotion and anger in action. Accepting and understanding our emotions can help us respond in a healthier way.

10. Anger teaches us about our ability to cope.

Finally, it’s worth remembering that anger can teach us a lot about ourselves. When we experience regular or chronic anger, it may be a sign that we need to examine our coping mechanisms. This may involve looking more closely at the stressors in our lives, planning relaxation time, or seeking help from a professional. By addressing the underlying issues of our anger, we can learn how to better cope with difficult emotions and experiences.

In conclusion, while anger may not feel like a gift, it has its uses. By understanding the physiological effects of anger, examining the underlying issues, and planning for relaxation time, we can use this powerful emotion more effectively. Humor can also be a useful tool for diffusing tension, and recognizing the triggers of our anger can help us respond in a healthier way. Ultimately, anger requires recognition and control – and when we learn how to use this emotion effectively, it can become a valuable tool for personal growth and change.