New Year Resolutions for Stress Relief

By Elizabeth Scott, M.S., About.com Guide

Updated February 22, 2012

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Sometimes stressful situations seem to culminate quickly, and we can go from feeling fine to overwhelmed in a very short period of time. When this happens, it's impractical to stop your life to go practice yoga, get a massage, or try other effective but time-consuming stress relievers. It’s best to have a quick and effective way to turn off your fight or flight response and trigger your relaxation response. The following techniques are easy to learn and can be practiced virtually anywhere and at any time. This year, it would be a great idea to try a few of them and see what works best for you.

• Breathing Exercises

• Take a Mental Break

• Progressive Muscle Relaxation

• Read More on Quick Ways to Calm Down