10 Proven Stress-Busters

Photo by: Wendy Hope

1. Make Lists "Create a schedule of all the things you need to accomplish," advises Carol Goldberg, Ph.D. "Do your most difficult or annoying tasks first," adds psychotherapist Jo Ann Lederman.

2. Breathe Deeply Activities that involve deep breathing can help you achieve a state of profound rest, says Herbert Benson, M.D., president of the Mind/Body Medical Institute.

3. Blow Off Steam "Laughter, exercise, music, massage, sleep and even crying are all ways to relieve stress," says Deepak Chopra, M.D., founder of the Chopra Centers for Well Being.

4. Confront Your Stressors "Talk and think through what you're feeling," says Dr. Chopra, "or you'll end up treating the symptoms, not their cause."

5. Use Visualization If an anxiety attack suddenly comes on, picture a simple image such as a tranquil ocean. Focus on it until you can perceive the details completely, says Lederman.

6. Count It Out Close your eyes, focus on your breathing, and tap each finger from one to 10 and back, says psychotherapist Greta Angert. If stressful thoughts intrude, start over.

7. Be a Diplomat When faced with criticism and controlling advice, Judith Orloff, M.D. recommends "firmly asserting yourself while showing respect and appreciation for others' input."

8. Get Your ZZZs Avoid stimulants like coffee and sugar and exercise within three hours of bedtime, says Yosef Krespi, M.D., an N.Y.C. sleep disorder specialist.

9. Take It In Stride Don't expect perfection on your wedding day. Have helpers on hand to deal with any problems, and try to go with the flow.

10. Stretch Out Lie on your back, legs straight, arms perpendicular to your body. While breathing deeply, clasp one knee to your chest and bring your forehead toward your knee. Hold for about 3 seconds, then lower your head and knee, return your hand to the floor, and slowly extend your leg. Do this six times on each side, suggests yoga therapist Deborah Kearn.