If you are deprived of sleep you will automatically trigger a state of stress.  Without sleep, our bodies will react accordingly which causes an increase in blood pressure and a production of stress hormones.  The stress hormones also, unfortunately, make it harder for you to sleep and thus you get caught in a viscous circle.

Try to get an adequate amount of sleep by reducing or eliminating caffeine, (especially in the evening), reduce your evening schedule to try and get to bed earlier, don't take work home that might keep you up trying to solve problems and try to get prepared for sleep by doing something relaxing such as taking a hot bath, listening to soothing music, light exercising or reading.

If you are having problems sleeping, use over the counter sleep aids or speak to your doctor who may prescribe something stronger.

Even the most stressful situations generally have a positive to them somewhere - even if that is simply that at some point the situation will be over with one way or another.

Try to look at the negative elements of the situation you are in and determine how you could turn them positive througth actions, words and other activities.

Frequently we get stressed because something hits us when we are not expecting it and as such causes immediate anxiety because we are not prepared to deal with it.

Whenever possible try to take a step back for a few hours or even a full day.  If you can, either jot down or make a mental note of the pros and cons of the issue and then try to put it aside.

Upon readdressing the issue you may find that it is either not as bad as you initially thought or at least you may have a clearer vision of how to go about addressing it in a positive manner.

A hobby is simply an activity or interest that is undertaken for pleasure or relaxation and should be an integral part of any stress relief program.

Essentially you are empowering yourself to do something you like which is especially useful when you ‘need to get away from it all’. It doesn’t need to be an expensive hobby and can be as simple as collecting, performing/singing, reading, gardening or any other recreational activities.

If you are in a healthy relationship, sex with your spouse or partner can be a great stress reliever.

Sex relaxes your body, releases endorphins and other healthy hormones, lowers your blood pressure, promotes wellness and enhances your relationship (which itself is a nice stress reliever).

Our body’s natural relaxation response can be a potent remedy to everyday stress and anxiety.

Techniques such as yoga, deep breathing, meditation, pranayama and other progressive muscle relaxation activities can help you activate this anxiety reducing reaction. Done regularly, these activities will lead to a decline in your daily stress levels while augmenting feelings of calm and serenity.

They can also be very beneficial by helping you to stay calm and collected while dealing with everyday trial and tribulations.

We've all heard about this one but it really does work and should be one of the first things any of us does when starting to feel stressed.

A deep breath will oxygenate your blood and overall body which will immediately help you reduce your stress and begin to relax.  In addition to the scientific and biological reasons, simply taking a short time-out from whatever is stressing you can help you clear your mind and maintain your composure.

Begin by inhaling slowly through your nose and try to strecthc yourself upwards to fill your lungs and let your belly expand. Hold the breath for a few seconds, (5 to 10 is perfect) then exhale slowly through your mouth or nose. Repeat several times.

When facing anxiety and getting stressed out with what is going on around us, most of us would simply love to be able to transport ourselves somewhere else.

By simply taking a few moments to imagine and visualize yourself in a more relaxing arena, you will begin to feel more relaxed and at peace with what is really happening.

Begin by close your eyes and taking a few slow breaths.  Then take a few seconds visualizing a relaxing scene of your choice.  This could be something like walking through a forest, running in a meadow, fishing by a lake or simply lying by the beach.   The important thing is to focus on the details within your ideal situation such as the sights, sounds and smells.