Dealing with Traffic Jam Stress - MPM Rent

Traffic jams have become a common sight that we often encounter. This phenomenon cannot be avoided, especially in urban areas. The high number of vehicle use causes traffic jams. The limited capacity of the road and crowded vehicles resulting in congestion. This of course can drain you physically and mentally. The length of time you're stuck in traffic can increase your stress level. Do you know how to deal with stress when stuck in traffic? Learn more about how to deal with stress when stuck in traffic in our following article.

Congestion usually occurs during rush hours such as in the morning when you are going to work or in the afternoon when you come home from work. The risk of traffic jams also often occurs during holidays because many people choose to go out of their houses. Long traffic jams can waste your time and irritate you. You could just be stuck in traffic for several minutes to hours which disturbs your activities. During traffic jams, you can only remain patient, but most impatient drivers honk their horns and become stressed. So what should you do to deal with the stress of being stuck in traffic? Let’s read and review this article ‘til the end for a complete explanation!

How to Overcome Stress When Stuck in Traffic

The following are ways you can deal with stress when stuck in traffic:

1. Inhale and exhale deeply

The easiest way is to inhale and exhale deeply to create a relaxing effect. The trick is to inhale deeply for at least three counts then exhale for four counts. You can feel calmer and your mind becomes clearer thus don't get carried away easily.

2. Listen to music and sing

Music can make you more relaxed. When you're in a stressful or angry situation, your heart rate and blood pressure tend to increase. This can make you uncomfortable. However, when you listen to your favorite songs, you will feel happy and your stress level will decrease. You can think of your car as a karaoke room where you can sing to relieve stress.

3. Control anger

Traffic jams can stress you out so much that negative feelings emerge. Sometimes there are drivers who cut the line regardless of the surrounding conditions. This of course makes you uncomfortable and triggers anger. It's normal to want to be angry, but you should just accept what happened at that time. Forgive the unpleasant behavior of other drivers and pivot your attention to positive things. Being angry will only waste your energy and increase your stress level. 

READ ALSO: How To Stop The Automatic and Manual Car in A Traffic Jam

4. Chat with other people

If you're driving with other people and get stuck in traffic, you can use this moment to chat. You can bring up interesting topics, air out your complaints, brainstorm with others, or play spirit-boosting word games. By chatting, you can distract your mind and time goes by faster.

5. Have a snack

Before driving, you can prepare your favorite snacks in the car. You can't predict when, where, or how long you'll be stuck in traffic. If you are stuck in traffic for hours, of course you will feel hungry because traffic jams can drain your energy. Snacks are one of the solutions to suppress stress and prop up your stomach until you reach your destination.

6. Adjust the sitting position

When you're stuck in traffic, you can't move, so you feel sore. Try to keep your sitting position not too upright so you don't get tired quickly. Hold the steering wheel of your car relaxed, but still be able to maneuver quickly and safely. You can also adjust the position of your feet to stay comfortable and alert in all situations.

7. Read a book

Reading books can be one of entertainment, especially for those of you who like to read. This activity can make you happy and add insight so that the time you spend in traffic jams will be useful. With advances in technology, now there is an audio book, which is a voice recording containing the text of the book being read. You can enjoy the contents of the book but still focus on driving at the same time.

8. Take advantage of gadgets

Gadgets such as smartphones, iPads or smartwatches have become a part of everyday life. You can use gadgets to overcome boredom by playing social media or games. Even so, you still have to pay attention to the situation and road conditions.

9. Sleep

If you are driving as a passenger and not the driver, then you can take a short nap. Sleep can restore your drained energy while stuck in traffic. When you sleep, even a long time feels like it passes quickly.

READ ALSO: How to Use Digital Map To Avoid Taking The Wrong Way

10. Consider alternative routes

If you feel the traffic flow is not very conducive, then you can consider alternative routes. Alternative routes are usually not as busy as the public routes. Even if it's a longer distance or takes longer, it's better than being stuck in traffic. Make sure you use a digital map application and check the latest news to find a better alternative route.

Those are some ways you can practice to deal with stress when stuck in traffic. Traffic jams are difficult to avoid, especially during rush hours, it would be better if you avoid driving during these hours. However, if you have to drive during rush hour, you can use the methods above to reduce your stress levels. Make sure to always be vigilant in dealing with all situations and conditions during traffic jams so that your trip is safe to your destination.

If you don't want to be bothered driving during traffic jams or traveling on roads full of traffic jams, you can consider a car rental service with a driver. MPM Rent has facilities for drivers who are proficient at driving and have long hours of driving. MPM Rent always ensures that the car is in the best condition for your comfort while driving. Monthly or yearly car rental made easy at MPM Rent at the best prices. Please contact the nearest car rental service in your city.