How to Stay Calm Behind the Wheel: Expert Tips to Reduce Road Rage
Feeling angry or frustrated while driving is something many of us experience—but letting road
rage take over can be dangerous for you and everyone around you. Dr. Simon Faynboym, a
psychiatrist and medical director at Neuro Wellness Spa in Los Angeles, shares five practical
strategies to help drivers stay calm and in control on the road.
1. Recognize the Physical Signs Early
Your body often gives you signals before your anger escalates. Racing heart, tense muscles,
shallow breathing—these are all signs that stress is building. Once you notice them, pause and
take slow, deep breaths. This activates your parasympathetic nervous system, which helps
counteract the body’s stress response and brings a sense of calm.
2. Create Distance from the Trigger
Sometimes the best way to de-escalate anger is to simply remove yourself from the situation.
Change lanes, pull over safely, or even just look away from the other driver. Physical and
psychological distance can prevent a small irritation from turning into full-blown road rage.
3. Reframe the Situation in Your Mind
It’s easy to take aggressive driving personally, but more often than not, it reflects the other
driver’s stress rather than anything you did. Remind yourself that their behavior isn’t about you.
Shifting your perspective can help reduce feelings of frustration and make it easier to respond
calmly.
4. Listen to Calming Music or a Podcast
Distracting yourself in a positive way can help regulate your emotional state. Turn on soothing
music, an engaging podcast, or an audiobook. Redirecting your attention allows you to release
tension and focus on something enjoyable rather than the conflict on the road.
5. Install a Dash Cam for Peace of Mind
Having a dash cam can significantly reduce anxiety while driving. Knowing there’s an objective
record of your journey can make you feel safer and less reactive to aggressive drivers. This
sense of security lowers baseline stress levels and allows you to stay calmer, even in tense
situations.
By practicing these strategies, you can take control of your emotional responses and make
driving a safer, more peaceful experience—for yourself and everyone sharing the road with you.
Staying calm behind the wheel isn’t just about avoiding accidents—it’s about protecting your
mental well-being and creating a more mindful driving environment.
For added peace of mind on the road, check out our top-rated dashcams below—your reliable
witness for safer, stress-free driving.
