Managing speed and stress: techniques for safer driving

In the transportation industry stressful scenarios can add an extra burden, learn to relax

World Relaxation Day is celebrated on August 15th, as a reminder that maintaining low levels of stress and anxiety is crucial for our health. However, achieving complete relaxation is often difficult. In the transportation industry, stressful situations and scenarios can add an extra burden to workers, sometimes resulting in inappropriate behaviors.

One of the most common indicators of high stress levels or emotional changes is the speed at which one drives. Some drivers are drawn to the thrill of accelerating and experiencing high speeds, while others may use speed as a way to release the inhibitions they carry. The psychology behind this behavior includes several factors:

Excitement and adrenaline: The pursuit of adrenaline by pushing a vehicle to its limits is a strong motivation, as this kind of excitement releases dopamine.
Overconfidence: Believing in superior driving skills can lead to underestimating the risks of speeding, such as increased braking distances and reduced reaction times.
Emotional states: Anger, frustration, or stress can lead to more aggressive and faster driving.
Influence of music: Fast, energetic music can increase driving speed, as intense rhythms may motivate drivers to accelerate.

To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to educate drivers, promote awareness campaigns, and strictly enforce speed limits. Understanding the psychological factors behind speeding can help foster safer driving habits and reduce the risk of accidents.

Relaxation methods for drivers

Considering the potential consequences of speeding and prioritizing safety is essential to avoid dangerous behaviors. However, for drivers experiencing high levels of stress or finding it difficult to control their impulses, the following relaxation methods may be useful when the road feels like an adversary:

1. Deep abdominal breathing

Place one hand on your abdomen. Inhale slowly through your nose, feeling your belly rise, and exhale gently through your mouth, feeling your belly fall. Breathe for 4-5 seconds, focusing on the movement of your abdomen. This technique activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting calmness and focus.

2. Visualized breathing

Visualize a calming scene, such as a beach or a forest, while inhaling and exhaling slowly. With each inhalation, imagine drawing in calmness, and with each exhalation, release stress. This technique combines visualization and breathing to improve mental clarity and emotional stability while driving.

3. Use Stop signs to develop presence

An experiment showed that three-quarters of drivers do not come to a complete stop at stop signs. Sometimes, we forget to be present and drive on autopilot, so stop signs can serve as a reminder to return to the present moment and increase awareness while driving. At each stop, take the time to comply with the law and relax your mind.

4. Music that matches your emotions

Just as music can lead drivers to accelerate on roads, it can also have the opposite effect. Choosing music that provides serenity while driving is an excellent technique to prevent situations outside your vehicle from causing excessive stress. Stay present with the music, practice breathing exercises, and drive with due caution.