The car is a place that increases the pressure, even in calm people. A new Ford survey * shows that most parents annoy their children during car journeys, especially by singing at the wheel, using dirty words or ... picking their noses! In France, 74% of parents would lose their temper at the wheel or swear in front of children. Ouch!

So if you have a tendency to stress and if traffic jams immobilize you or make you swear, it is likely that you need to find ways to reduce tensions. Here are a few.

Stress and traffic jams: music softens morals

Rather than fuel your stress and start a symphony with your horn, put your favorite CD in the player, and immerse yourself in the music. If classical music and jazz are soothing styles, you can also put on more catchy tunes that you will sing to release tension . If you are not too much music, listen to a radio show on a topic that interests you. It will distract your attention from traffic jams and make you think of something else.
But beware, still according to this study Ford, parents who push the ditty to their children in traffic jams would have the opposite effect of the desired one. Obviously the music does not soften the manners of everyone!

Stress and traffic jams: look around you

The car at a standstill in traffic jams is like sitting on a deck watching passers-by. Except that, you observe the other motorists: the one who puts his finger in his nose, a child who makes you a face, or a couple who argues. Make your curious, and invent their story. Traffic jams can also be an opportunity to think quietly, provided you do not be disturbed by the annoyance of others.

Stress and traffic jams: breathe

To manage your stress , and especially in traffic jams that add to it because of the fear of the delay and the sensation of confinement, learn to relax while breathing. Inhale for a long time through the belly, then exhale. Accompany your breathing exercises with soft music. You can also relax by gently massaging the contour of your eyes or the ridge of your nose, while breathing properly. This will allow you to relax your facial muscles and avoid getting angry. You will arrive zen at your desk, ready for a day of work.

* carried out with 2000 children in Europe