You may not realize how much time you spend behind the wheel, or how dangerous it can be if you not paying attention for just a second. It’s important to know how to stay calm in every situation and avoid distractions while driving. Below are a few tips that can help keep you safe and focused on the road.
Listen to calming music.
Listening to loud music that makes you want to dance isn’t always the best choice while behind the wheel. If you find yourself getting angry at the other drivers turn on something calming that you like to enjoy. It can be classical music, jazz, or your favorite Disney song. Be sure the volume isn’t too loud as the music can become distracting as well.
Practice breathing meditation.
If you find that you get easily aggravated while driving, a good practice to use breathing meditation to calm down and remain focused on the road. Slowly count to 4 while you breathe in and then hold your breath for 3 seconds. Exhale slowly while counting to 3 seconds and then repeat. You just did a ten second meditation that can turn your whole day just a little bit better.
Have a mantra you can use.
Similar to the breathing technic, using a mantra in when you’re stuck in traffic and running late for work can totally change your attitude and help you remain focused. You can pick a saying or create one that means something to you and repeat it whenever you’re not in the optimum mindset while behind the wheel. This is a great way to get clam and can be applied at any time, not just while driving.
Avoid eating while driving.
If you can help it, try not to eat while you’re driving and if you are drinking anything like water or even coffee, use a straw. Studies have shown that eating and drinking can be one of the most distracting things you can be doing while driving. Using a straw while you’re behind the wheel can prevent the cup from blocking your view when you go to take a sip. Still, it’s better to wait while you’re at a complete stop to drink and avoid eating anything that requires two hand or is considered messy.
Use Hands-free technology
In these modern times it possible to control your music, check you’re a calendar for appointments and call your job to let them know you’ve hit traffic all without taking your hands off the wheel. Before taking off in your car, take the time to set up your Bluetooth connection from your phone. This can not only save you some time while driving but can also save your life. Even searching through music to find the right song can be distracting enough behind the wheel. If you can just say “put on meditation music” to your car and the music plays, you wouldn’t need to take your hands off the wheel or take your eyes off the road for one second.
By using these tips, you can stay safe and focused on the road, free from distractions and frustrations and in line with hands-free state laws. This aren’t the only way to stay calm, but they are some of the best ways. Using hands-free, saying a mantra, and not eating while driving are great tips that will help you stay calm and avoid distractions while driving.