I've used meditation a lot today as a solution to differing problems. I take that as a sign I should meditate more. Meditation helps to quiet the mind so you can come to the situation with a calmer focus. It is intensity that drives us to extremes. Meditation helps to let go of that urgency, to still the waters or in your case, the pendalum.

It's hard to let go. Even as I'm typing this, I'm resisting my own need for meditation. It always feels so important to not let go. When you finally reach that place of quiet the emotional releases can be disturbing. Once they're over though, you're free.