Emotions are often compared to waves. Just as a person who doesn’t move deliberately in the ocean can be swept away by waves, we too can get caught up in emotional turmoil if we lose control of our minds. But just like waves that crash and quickly disappear, intense emotions also pass.
For example, when the brain encounters something negative, it activates the sympathetic nervous system and releases stress hormones. This triggers physical reactions like a racing heart, trembling voice, or flushed face. However, these hormones only remain active in the bloodstream for about 90 seconds. After that, they’re flushed out, and the body begins to calm down.
Neuroscientist Jill Bolte Taylor explains:
“If you’re still angry after 90 seconds, it’s because you’ve chosen to stay in that emotional loop.”
In other words, any emotion that lingers beyond that point is something we’re consciously holding onto.
When we let negative emotions like anger take over, it can damage both our happiness and our relationships. Instead of letting your mind get tossed around by a wave of feelings, try using the wisdom of 90 seconds. You might find yourself calmly floating in a peaceful sea of emotion, fully back in control.