Take a breath - part 2

By taking a breath you have created a little distance between you and the conflict that is trying to lure you in.

If this is not enough to help prevent an upcoming argument, try this:

When you are in a calm space with your partner discuss the way you argue. And agree upon a word or a gesture you can both use when either of you feels like things are spiralling out of control. Which will signal a time apart to reflect and calm down.
This could be a totally unrelated word like "airplane" or "vulcano" which may reflect the imminent outburst a bit more.

One word of caution and restraint: make sure you do not use it to make your point ( unkindly) and then call for the space and time to reflect and calm down. Although this seems a perfect way to keep your partner quiet, whilst getting to say your bit, used this way, it will only fuel the conflict more.

If you are experiencing a lot of recurring conflict in your relationship, do reach out and let's talk.