Study reveals how Pinoys can cope with traffic stress

MANILA, Philippines — Seventy seven percent of Filipino drivers claim that traffic congestion is their primary cause of stress and anxiety. While the MMDA cannot fully resolve the bumper-to-bumper cars in traffic yet, at least we can do something to keep the stress at bay, even for just a little while.

So what do Filipino drivers do when stuck in traffic? A whopping 50 percent of Filipino drivers surveyed by the Ford Motor Company admit that they sing in the car frequently or nearly every time they’re driving, and an additional 44 percent admitted to belting out their favorite tunes once in a while. 

Research published in the international medical journal Evolutionary Psychology suggests that singing can help trigger the release of endorphins in the brain, which produce feelings of happiness and euphoria. 

Aside from singing, here are some other tips to help you relax behind the wheel:

Listen to audio books

Another good way to pass the time and forget about the stresses of the road is to catch up on the news or to listen to an audio book. People who listen to audio books feel less aggressive. In one study, book listeners were not only less irritable when other vehicles cut them off, but they drove more slowly and carefully.

Lighten up

The price of fuel may be getting you down, but your driving decisions can cut down on fuel use and save you cash. Removing excess weight from cargo areas, planning your route in advance and easing off the accelerator for less aggressive driving can all make a substantial difference to the cost of driving. 

Practice makes perfect

Going back to the basics can help take the stress out of parking. Grab a few cones to act as substitute cars and head to the nearest parking lot or open space for a throwback to the days when you were practicing for the driving test. 

Stay alert and in control

Make sure you’re prepared for the journey ahead. Avoid driving while sleepy, and take plenty of breaks to make sure you’re on the top of your game, whether you need a restroom break, a cup of coffee or a solid meal to keep yourself fuelled up.