What is a recommended practice to help reduce stress while driving?

Taking breaks while driving is a recommended practice for reducing stress because it allows you to alleviate any tension that may have built up during your journey. Prolonged driving can lead to fatigue, frustration, and anxiety, all of which hinder your ability to focus and operate the vehicle safely. By stopping for a break, you can stretch, hydrate, and clear your mind. This restorative practice helps in maintaining your concentration and calmness, leading to better decision-making on the road.

In contrast, yelling at other drivers can escalate road rage and further increase stress levels instead of alleviating them. Driving faster may seem like a way to get to your destination quickly, but it can increase anxiety and the likelihood of accidents. Similarly, while drinking caffeine may provide a temporary boost in alertness, it can also lead to increased heart rate and jitteriness, which are not conducive to a calm driving experience. Taking breaks is a proactive and constructive way to ensure a more relaxed and safer driving environment.