These are some techniques you can use, singly or in combinatiom to alleviate stress and help relax mind and body

1.  Take a Deep Breath

When you feel yourself becoming stressed, take a deep breath and calm down.  The part of the brain stem responsible for breathinig is also thickly endowned with neuropeptides and neuropeptide receptors (chemical messengers that stimulate food feelings and the sensation of pleasure), and it is thought that this is how deep breathing can result in a calming and happier mindset.

2.  Are You a 'Type A' Personality?

If you are always on the go, work like a superhuman, competitive, in need of recognition and advancement you   probably are.  Harvard Medical School found that 'type A' personalities have a 50% higher chance of suffering a heart attack than the mellower 'type B'.  Define and prioritise your aims and remember to pace yourself.

3.  Communicate

Don't bottle up your problems.  Share them with a friend, partner or someone at work, then listen to what they have to say.  The act of talking things over helps you to put problems in perspective.

4.  Write it all Down

Writing down your problems can help relieve stress and improve your health, according to several studies.  Put aside about twenty minutes every day to write down your deepest thoughts and grievances - it will help you sort out your life.

5.  Stop Using Stimulants

Stop smoking and limit caffeine and alcohol consumption.  Stimulants don't alleviate tension, they actually increase stress levels and exacerbate symptoms of stress.

6.  Get Organised

Lack of organisation is a common cause of stress.  These guidelines can help you to keep your life in order.
Keep a day planner to record events, tasks and deadlines;
List all your commitments in order of priority - be realisitic;
Delegate tasks or shelve them until you have more time.

7.  Take a Hike

Exercise is one of the best remedies for stress.  It increases the amount of endorphins in your brain, helping you to relax, calm down and remember the good things in life.

8.  Lose Yourself in a Daydream

Take ten minutes out to daydream - imagine yourself on a golden beach or remember a place that makes you feel calm.  Try to recall the actual feeling of calmness and remind yourself that there is more to life.

9.  Get a Pet

Pets offer unconditional love and loyalty to their owners which can be especially beneficial during times of stress.  The physical act of stroking a cat or a dog has a relaxing effect and has been shown to lower blood pressure. Walking a dog provides valuable exercise and gives you time to yourself or an opportunity to meet other owners.

10. Stand up for Yourself

By asserting your rights you enhance your self-esteem and relieve stress. Whether you are at work, at home or making a complaint in a shop, make your point politely but firmly.
Prepare what you want to say in your mind;
Maintain steady eye contact, without staring;
State your case firmly in a steady voice without shouting or sounding apologetic;
Avoid seeming confrontational by showing that you are prepared to listen to the other person's viewpoint and to compromise.