Strategies for Releasing Anger and Finding Peace


Intro
Anger is a natural human emotion that everyone feels from time to time. However, unchecked anger can grow roots and fester into a formidable barrier to our well-being. Often, people carry this burden without realizing itâs affecting their daily lives, relationships, and overall happiness. This article aims to guide individuals through the intricate process of letting go of that anger, shining a light on various emotions linked to it.
By understanding the origins of anger and recognizing its effects, one can start to peel back the layers of this emotional response. This journey encourages self-discovery and offers practical techniques to reign in tumultuous feelings. In essence, it doesn't just stop at recognizing anger but cultivates a pathway towards tranquility and self-acceptance.
Types of Guided Meditation
To manage anger effectively, one powerful method is guided meditation. Various forms exist, each catering to different needs and preferences. Here are two common types:
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation focuses on being present in the moment. It encourages practitioners to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment. When anger surges, this practice can help individuals note their anger, understand its triggers, and allow it to pass without acting impulsively.
- Key aspects of mindfulness meditation:
- Present-moment awareness
- Non-judgmental observation
- Deep breathing techniques
Sleep Meditation
Sleep meditation, on the other hand, aims to ease tension accumulated throughout the day. For many, restful sleep can be elusive, especially when anger lingers in the background. Utilizing sleep meditation can help quiet the mind, promoting relaxation and tranquility.
- Significance of sleep meditation:
- Helps release pent-up frustrations
- Enhances sleep quality
- Encourages a peaceful mindset
Benefits of Guided Meditation
Implementing guided meditation into daily routines can yield profound benefits, particularly in managing anger.
Mental Clarity and Focus
One notable advantage is improved mental clarity and focus. With regular practice, individuals often find it easier to process emotions and thoughts holistically. This clarity diminishes the likelihood of overreacting in anger-inducing situations.
Improved Sleep Quality
Additionally, incorporating guided meditation into oneâs nighttime routine can notably improve sleep quality. Better sleep leads to better emotional regulation, making it easier to face daily challenges without being overwhelmed by anger.
âMeditation is the art of listening to oneself and understanding the deeper currents of the mind.â
In essence, letting go of anger is not an overnight task but a gradual journey requiring commitment and practice. Through implementing strategies like guided meditation, individuals can find practical tools to empower their emotional health.
Understanding Anger
Understanding anger is the cornerstone of managing it effectively. It's crucial to realize that anger, at its core, is a natural human emotion. It can serve useful purposes such as signaling to us that something isnât right or that a boundary has been crossed. However, when our anger becomes overwhelming or is left unchecked, it can lead to serious negative outcomes. This section will delve deep into the nuances of anger, aiming to equip you with the necessary insights to transform this fiery emotion into a more manageable, healthier aspect of your psyche.
The Nature of Anger
Anger can be likened to a double-edged sword. While it can propel us to take action or stand up for ourselves, it can also cloud our judgment, leading us to make hasty decisions we might regret later. At its essence, anger can be understood as a reaction to perceived threats or injustices, whether they are external or internal. This emotion can manifest in various shades, from mild irritation to explosive rage. When we recognize where our anger comes from, we start to understand its underlying motives. For example, perhaps a bossâs dismissive comment triggers feelings of inadequacy, which we may not even be fully aware of.
Psychological Roots of Anger
The psychological roots of anger run deep and are often tied to other emotions. Feelings of sadness or fear can serve as a breeding ground for anger. For instance, if an individual feels humiliated in a social situation, the resulting sadness might be transformed into outward anger toward others or themselves. By teasing apart these layers, we can unearth what truly lies beneath our angry outbursts.
Consider this: anger itself is not a primary emotion; itâs often a cover for something else. Understanding what lies beneath the surface can be quite enlightening. As you begin to identify the triggers and feelings that fuel your anger, you may find that unresolved issues from the past or unmet needs are at play. This understanding can pave the way for healing and, ultimately, for letting go.
Physiological Reactions to Anger
Anger doesnât just tug on the emotional strings; it also puts the body into a state of high alert. This means physiological reactions kick in, like increased heart rate, sweating, and a rush of adrenaline. These responses are part of the fight-or-flight mechanism, meant to prepare us for action. But when feelings of anger linger, they can wreak havoc on the body, leading to chronic stress, hypertension, or even digestive issues over time.
It's fascinating how intertwined our emotions and physical health really are. Recognizing the body's signalsâtightness in your chest, clenched fists, or a sudden urge to yellâcan be the first step toward acknowledging anger. The next time you feel anger boiling, take a moment to check in with your body. It may provide valuable insights into what you're experiencing emotionally.
"Understanding the nature of anger helps one harness its energy rather than let it consume them."
By delving into the nature, psychological roots, and physiological reactions of anger, we set the stage for meaningful engagement with our emotions. The key lies in transforming anger from a destructive force into a powerful catalyst for positive change.
The Consequences of Suppressed Anger
Understanding the implications of holding onto anger is crucial when taking steps toward emotional well-being. When anger is bottled up, it doesn't just vanish; it manifests in several harmful ways. This section deliberates on the mental health impacts, physical health implications, and effects on relationships that arise from not expressing anger appropriately. Each of these aspects serves as a reminder that addressing anger is not just a matter of personal choice, but a necessity for living a balanced life.
Mental Health Impacts
Anger, when suppressed, can lead to a host of mental health issues. It often morphs into anxiety and stress that seem to creep into daily life, making people feel like they are always on edge. Studies indicate that those who do not acknowledge their anger frequently experience symptoms of depression. Itâs as if holding in negative emotions creates a snowball effectâone tiny irritation accumulates over time, producing a mountain of unresolved issues.
- Low Self-Esteem: Individuals may blame themselves for their anger, leading to feelings of guilt or shame. This cycle further deteriorates their self-worth.
- Mood Disorders: With prolonged suppression of anger, mood swings may become more frequent. A person can shift from feeling irritable to feeling utterly hopeless without any clear trigger.


Ultimately, addressing anger is key to mental clarity. The first step toward healing begins with acknowledging that anger has a voice and it deserves to be heard in a constructive manner.
Physical Health Implications
Let's talk about the body. When anger is tucked away, it can physically affect your health. The body often responds to suppressed emotions with a fight-or-flight reaction, leading to increased levels of cortisol, which can result in various health issues.
- Hypertension: Ongoing anger levels can contribute to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Chronic anger can lead to digestive troubles such as ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome. Itâs like your body is saying, âHey, thereâs something wrong here!â
Researchers have shown that emotional expression can lead to better health outcomes. So it really is a win-win to let those feelings out, rather than keeping them to fester inside.
Effects on Relationships
Suppressed anger can wreak havoc on personal and professional relationships. When emotions are shoved under the rug, misunderstandings can spiral into conflicts, creating barriers between friends, family, and colleagues. Hereâs how it usually plays out:
- Communication Breakdown: When you canât express anger healthily, you may resort to passive-aggressive behavior. Instead of straightforward conversations, snide comments and sarcasm become the norm, leading to confusion and resentment.
- Distance in Relationships: Over time, friends or loved ones may feel alienated. Suppressed anger often creates emotional walls, making it harder to connect on a deeper level.
Acknowledging Your Anger
Understanding and acknowledging your anger is the first step toward managing it in a productive way. Many people tend to suppress their anger, thinking itâs inappropriate or unproductive. This often results in a boiling pot situation, where emotions eventually spill over unexpectedly. By acknowledging your anger, you can start the process of moving forward.
Recognizing anger has several advantages. For one, it provides clarity about what is bothering you. It also opens the door to understanding the root causes of such feelings. This awareness can serve as a precursor to emotional healing, as it allows individuals to confront their issues rather than bury them. Not only does this approach promote mental well-being, but it can also improve relationships, as it encourages open communication about feelings.
Self-Reflection Techniques
Self-reflection is a powerful tool in the pursuit of emotional health, especially when it comes to anger. Engaging in self-reflection encourages individuals to explore the origins and implications of their anger. One effective way to accomplish this is by asking oneself open-ended questions. For instance, questions like "What specifically is making me angry?" or "How did this situation affect me?" can help in unearthing deeper insights.
Moreover, finding a quiet space to think can be beneficial. This can be a serene corner in your home or a spot in a local park. Allowing time for introspection can lead to truthful revelations about emotions, enabling a person to articulate their feelings better.
Identifying Triggers
Once you start the journey of acknowledging your anger, identifying the triggers that spark such emotions is another crucial step. Triggers can range from specific situations to particular individuals that invoke irritation or rage. Keeping track of these triggers helps to create a roadmap for understanding patterns in your emotional responses.
To identify these triggers, one may consider revisiting moments of anger. Ask yourself:
- What was happening right before I got angry?
- Who was present during the situation?
- Was there a certain feeling that preceded my anger?
Journaling can be a handy tool in documenting these triggers over time. With consistent effort, it becomes easier to see trends in what prompts emotional responses.
Keeping an Emotion Journal
An emotion journal can serve as a valuable asset in the journey of acknowledging and understanding anger. Writing down feelings as they come can serve multiple purposes. It captures the specifics of incidents that provoke anger, allowing for a review over time. Moreover, putting pen to paper can sometimes clarify thoughts that seem muddled in the heat of the moment.
When maintaining this journal, consider the following:
- Date and time of the event
- A brief description of the situation
- Your emotional response
- Changes in your thoughts or mood after the incident
- Reflection on how you could handle it differently in the future
Engaging in this kind of self-documentation not only serves as a release but also helps in tracking progress over time. It cultivates a greater sense of accountability and highlights the need for change where necessary.
"Acknowledging your anger is not about assigning blame or dwelling on negative emotions. It's about recognizing feelings for what they are and choosing a path toward resolution."
Mindfulness and Anger
Understanding how mindfulness relates to anger is crucial for anyone on the journey to emotional well-being. Mindfulness is essentially about paying attention, noticing your thoughts and feelings without judgement. This becomes particularly beneficial when dealing with anger. When one practices mindfulness, they learn to recognize anger's presence as it arises, allowing for a healthier response instead of an impulsive reaction. With this practice, an individual can create a buffer, giving them a moment to reflect before reacting. This is especially useful in preventing escalating situations.
Understanding Mindfulness
Mindfulness has roots in ancient practices and has recently found a home in modern psychology. It involves anchoring oneself in the present moment, noticing sensations, feelings, and thoughts, while letting them flow without engaging too deeply. This practice teaches individuals to observe anger not as an enemy, but as a temporary feeling that can be acknowledged without overreacting.
By recognizing anger and understanding its triggers, one can start to dismantle it bit by bit. It shifts the focus from being immersed in anger to observing it from a distance. This change in perspective plays a significant role in emotional regulation.
Meditation Techniques to Release Anger
Meditation can be a powerful ally in managing anger. One useful method is called the "Body Scan." This technique prompts individuals to slowly pay attention to each part of their body, noting any tension. Hereâs how to do it:
- Find a comfortable position - You can sit or lie down, whatever feels best.
- Close your Eyes - This helps eliminate distractions.
- Focus on Your Breathing - Inhale and exhale slowly.
- Start from Your Head - Notice any tightness. Imagine breathing into that area to release tension.
- Work Downward - Move through your body until reaching your toes.
By the end of the meditation, there is often a noticeable reduction in anger and tension. The body becomes more relaxed, and the mind clearer, providing the necessary tools to respond more constructively.
Breathing Exercises for Calmness
Breathing exercises are simple yet effective strategies to manage anger. An excellent technique to try is the "4-7-8 Breathing" method:
- Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds.
- Hold your breath for 7 seconds.
- Exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds.
This pattern not only calms the body but also serves to ground the mind, pulling focus away from anger and moving towards tranquility. Practicing this whenever frustration surfaces can help diffuse anger more effectively.
"Breathing is the anchor that can tether us to the present moment, a powerful reminder that we can always engender calmness in the storm of anger."


Incorporating these mindfulness strategies into daily life can create a more robust system for dealing with anger. By turning towards mindfulness, one can truly start to let go of anger, fostering a healthier emotional space.
Cognitive Approaches to Anger Management
Cognitive approaches to anger management encompass a range of strategies that focus on how our thought processes influence our emotional responses. It is essential to recognize that anger is often a response to our perceptions and interpretations of events. By addressing these cognitive patterns, we can effectively manage and transform our anger into more constructive emotions. This section explores various techniques designed to reshape the way we think about anger and enhance our overall emotional well-being.
Cognitive Behavioral Techniques
Cognitive Behavioral Techniques (CBT) sit at the heart of cognitive approaches to anger management. These strategies aim to identify and reshape negative thought patterns. For instance, when someone feels angry, they might think, "This is unfair!" or "I canât believe they did that to me!" Such thoughts can spiral, amplifying anger and frustration.
To counter this, CBT encourages individuals to examine the evidence of these thoughts critically. For example, ask yourself: "Is it really unfair? What evidence do I have? Am I overreacting to the situation?" By challenging irrational thoughts, we can cultivate a more balanced perspective, reducing the intensity of anger.
"Understanding that our thoughts shape our emotions empowers us to change our emotional experiences."
Engaging with a therapist proficient in CBT can further assist in learning these skills more effectively, helping to develop personalized techniques that fit each individual's needs.
Reframing Negative Thoughts
Reframing negative thoughts can also be immensely helpful when managing anger. It involves changing the way we perceive potentially anger-inducing situations. Instead of viewing a frustrating circumstance as solely negative, consider how it can serve a constructive purpose or contribute to personal growth. This shift in perception encourages a more positive emotional reaction.
For example, imagine you are stuck in traffic, an all-too-common source of irritation. Rather than boiling with frustration, why not reframe it as an opportunity to enjoy your favorite podcast?
Engaging in this reframing exercise can turn an annoying moment into an enjoyable one. To aid this process, try keeping a list of common triggering situations and brainstorming positive reframes for each. This practice can gradually adjust your mental patterns, making it easier to bypass those initial, less constructive reactions.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Setting realistic expectations is key in tempering feelings of anger. Often, we become angry because situations do not meet our expectations. For instance, if you expect everyone to show up on time but they donât, frustration becomes inevitable. This is where managing expectations comes in.
Recognize that not everyone will react or behave according to your timeline or standards. By adjusting expectations to account for the variability of human behavior, you can create a buffer against anger. Instead of being upset with others, focus on factors you can control, including your own responses and attitudes.
A practical tip is to practice flexible thinking: envision multiple outcomes and prepare yourself for them. Hereâs a simple way to start:
- When faced with a situation, identify your expectations.
- Consider all possible outcomes.
- Prepare your response for each potential outcome.
This method not only reduces anger but also fosters resilience and adaptability.
Expressing Anger Constructively
Navigating the stormy waters of anger can be quite a task. Yet, as this article highlights, the way we express anger is just as important as understanding its origins or managing it effectively. Expressing anger constructively doesnât mean suppressing it or blowing it out of proportion; itâs about finding the balance. This section delves into the practical aspects of channeling anger into something productive, which can lead to positive outcomes both for ourselves and those around us.
Choosing Healthy Outlets
If you want your anger to serve you rather than hurt you, it's crucial to find healthy outlets. Engaging in physical activities, like running or yoga, can act as a pressure release valve. When emotions bubble up, these activities not only reduce tension but also flood the system with endorphins, those little feel-good hormones. The key is to recognize when you're feeling that heat rise and respond with a physical activity instead of an emotional outburst.
Other healthy outlets might include:
- Writing: Putting thoughts on paper can help clarify feelings.
- Talking: Finding a trusted friend or family member to share feelings with minimizes bottling up.
- Creative Pursuits: Activities like gardening, cooking, or even woodworking can provide a soothing distraction while channeling energy positively.
By focusing on these outlets, you start to create a habit where anger becomes a motivator, not a derailleur.
Communicating Effectively
They say, "Carrying a grudge is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die." This adage highlights the importance of communication when expressing anger. Instead of lashing out in frustration, learning to communicate your feelings clearly can help avoid misunderstandings and unnecessary confrontations.
Using âIâ statements can foster more constructive dialogues. For example, instead of saying, "You never listen to me," you might say, "I feel ignored when I donât have my concerns acknowledged." This technique reduces defensiveness and opens a pathway for dialogue.
Itâs also important to pick your moment wisely. Discussing how you feel when tempers are flaring usually leads to escalation rather than resolution. Finding a calm moment is pivotal for honest, tranquil discussions regarding any anger you hold.
Artistic Expression as a Tool
Art is more than just a hobby; it can be a lifeline when it comes to processing anger. Whether itâs through painting, music, or dance, artistic expression allows individuals to express feelings that may be difficult to articulate verbally. The beauty of art lies in its subjectivity. You donât have to be a Picasso or a Beethoven to create something meaningful.
Consider these approaches to leverage artistic expression:
- Visual Arts: Painting your feelings can be a cathartic experience. There are no wrong strokes; it's about the emotion behind the brush.
- Music: Creating or playing music can channel anger creatively. Sometimes, just listening to uplifting tunes can shift your emotional landscape dramatically.
- Dance: Movement can serve as an expressive outlet for emotions, often allowing a release of pent-up feelings that words canât capture.
Engaging with art not only serves as an emotional outlet but also contributes to self-discovery and healing.
"Art is the most beautiful of all lies." - Picasso. This succinctly encapsulates how creativity can help alter oneâs perception of anger.
In summary, expressing anger constructively is about channeling energy through positive means. Utilize healthy outlets, communicate feelings effectively, and consider the power of artistic expression to refine how you manage anger in your life.
Building Emotional Resilience
Building emotional resilience is a vital pillar in the quest to let go of anger. Itâs like fortifying a sturdy wall to protect oneself from the tempests of life. Emotional resilience allows individuals to bounce back from setbacks and handle stress in a more constructive way. Recognizing that we can train ourselves to develop this resilience is crucial for emotional well-being.


Strategies for Emotional Health
Firstly, it is essential to embrace a variety of strategies to promote emotional health. These approaches can serve as mental exercises, much like physical workouts at the gym. Here are some of them:
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Engaging in regular physical activity helps release feel-good hormones. Eating a balanced diet can affect mood positively.
- Sleep Hygiene: Adequate sleep plays a significant role in emotional regulation. Lack of sleep can lead to short tempers and heightened anger responses.
- Social Connections: Surrounding oneself with supportive friends and family members provides a cushioning effect, enhancing resilience during tough times.
Cultivating Gratitude
Cultivating gratitude can pivotally shift oneâs perspective. When focusing on the positives, it becomes harder for anger to take root. There are various ways to practice gratitude intentionally:
- Gratitude Journals: Writing down things to be thankful for each day can foster a habit of appreciation.
- Gratitude Letters: Occasionally, writing a letter to someone who has positively impacted your life can strengthen emotional ties and enhance feelings of gratitude.
- Mindful Moments: Taking a few minutes each day to reflect on positive experiences can cultivate a mindset focused on abundance rather than lack.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Lastly, seeking professional guidance shouldnât be viewed as a weakness but rather as a proactive choice. Therapists or counselors can provide strategies tailored to individual needs. They have the expertise to guide one through emotional challenges, offering tools and insights that might not be visible from within oneâs own emotional landscape.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This effective approach can help restructure negative thought patterns associated with anger.
- Group Therapy: Sharing experiences with others who face similar challenges can foster a sense of belonging and support.
"Building emotional resilience is not just about getting through tough times; it's about growing through them."
By embracing these strategies, cultivating gratitude, and seeking help when necessary, individuals can develop a sturdy emotional foundation. Ultimately, this resilience not only aids in letting go of anger but also nurtures a more harmonious and fulfilling life.
Integrating Letting Go into Daily Life
Adapting the principles of letting go of anger into your daily routine might seem challenging, but it can fundamentally transform how you engage with the world around you. This involves much more than just saying you want to let go; it means making intentional changes that foster emotional health and resilience. Integrating these practices into your existing lifestyle can lead to significant benefits, such as improved relationships, enhanced mental clarity, and a more peaceful existence.
Creating Personal Mantras
One way to help ease the process of letting go is through personal mantras. A mantra can be a simple phrase or affirmation that resonates with you, acting as a reminder whenever anger tries to creep back in. For example, saying something like "I choose peace over anger" can serve as a gentle nudge to redirect your thoughts. This isnât just about affirmations; itâs about embedding those phrases in your mind until they become reflexive responses.
Here are a few tips to create effective mantras:
- Keep it simple: A mantra should be short and easy to remember.
- Make it personal: Choose words that reflect what you value. Personal relevance increases the mantra's impact.
- Repeat regularly: Integrate this practice into meditation, or even when you find your temper flaring.
Remember, the key is repetition; the more you say it, the deeper it sinks into your subconscious, slowly reshaping your emotional landscape.
Establishing Healthy Boundaries
Healthy boundaries are vital in allowing individuals to cultivate an environment conducive to letting go of anger. Without them, one might find themselves ensnared in cycles of frustration and resentment. Establishing these boundaries helps delineate between what is acceptable and what is not. Put simply, it is knowing your limits.
To begin setting up boundaries, consider the following steps:
- Identify your triggers: Recognize what situations provoke your anger. Awareness is the first tool in your toolkit.
- Communicate clearly: Once you know your limits, express them assertively to others without undermining their feelings.
- Practice saying no: Itâs alright to turn down opportunities or engagements that put you in a position to feel angry or upset.
Healthy boundaries foster a sense of respect, both for yourself and for others, paving the way for smoother interpersonal interactions. This approach not only guards you from potential anger, but also supports healthier relationships.
Consistency in Practice
Finally, consistency in practice is paramount. Embracing let go of anger involves iterative and persistent effort. Much like building muscle, emotional resilience requires regular reinforcement of the habits you've developed.
Hereâs how you can maintain consistency:
- Schedule set times: Integrate practices like journaling or meditation into your daily agendaâtreat them as non-negotiable appointments.
- Celebrate small victories: Acknowledge even minor progress toward emotional clarity. It helps to keep the momentum going.
- Reflect and adapt: Regularly re-evaluate whatâs working or what needs tweaking. Being flexible in approach can keep the process from feeling stale or overwhelming.
Consistency is not about perfection; itâs about creating an environment where letting go can flourish.
Incorporating these elements into your daily life is not just about stopping rage in its tracks; it's about nurturing an ongoing mindset of peace and understanding. When you actively practice letting go of anger, you create a more harmonious existence for yourself and those around you.
Evaluating Progress
Evaluating progress in letting go of anger is like checking your compass while navigating through a dense forest. You need to know where you are to ensure youâre heading in the right direction. This stage encourages self-awareness and reflection on the strategies employed to manage anger. Without this evaluation, itâs easy to wander off the path, perhaps even rekindling resentments that you thought you had buried. The process of evaluating progress involves considering your emotional responses, recognizing recurring themes, and determining which tools are truly effective.
The benefits of incorporating progress evaluations are vast. Not only does it elucidate personal growth, it also aids in reinforcing positive behaviors. By understanding what works and what doesnât, you create a tailored approach to emotional management, making the journey towards tranquility less of a guessing game.
Self-Assessment Techniques
Self-assessment is pivotal. The first step is to engage in introspection. A simple yet effective way to gauge your emotional state is through mindful meditation. Sit quietly and take stock of your feelings. Are you holding onto frustration or letting joy seep in? Jotting down thoughts in a journal can also be helpful. Consider questions like: How did I feel today? Was I triggered by anything?
Additionally, asking trusted friends or family for their perspective can provide valuable insights. They might notice shifts in your behavior or mood that you might overlook.
Self-assessment techniques are akin to fine-tuning an instrument; they help ensure youâre playing the right notes on your emotional journey.
Reflecting on Emotional Changes
Reflection isnât just about looking back; itâs about understanding the shifts in your emotional landscape. Throughout your journey, you might notice that what once triggered a surge of anger now evokes little more than a brief annoyance. This indicates growth. Reflecting on changes helps you appreciate incremental victories. Itâs crucial to differentiate between temporary frustrations and deeper-seated issues.
Take time each week to review your emotional journal. Are there patterns emerging? Maybe certain situations or people consistently incite anger. Identifying these allows you to devise strategies to handle them better in the future.
Adjusting Your Approach as Needed
One size fits all isnât a mantra you want to adopt when it comes to emotionally letting go. As you monitor your progress, be prepared to reshuffle your deck of methods. If deep breathing exercises donât yield the peace you seek, maybe it's time to explore yoga or tai chi, which incorporate movement and breath in a synergistic approach.
Set aside a regular time to adapt your strategies. Consider writing down what works and what doesnât, then make adjustments based on these evaluations. Furthermore, donât shy away from reaching out for professional support when necessary. Therapy or counseling can provide fresh perspectives and techniques that you might not even be aware of.