Meditation, especially Transcendental, is an obvious choice for creating quiet because it can lower blood pressure, ease a racing heart, and even reduce pain response (Neuro Report, 2006, vol. 17, no. 12).

Positive thinking is another shortcut to tranquility. For instance, participants in a 2005 University of California study who affirmed their personal values prior to completing a stressful task showed significantly lower cortisol levels (Psychological Science, 2005, vol. 16, no. Il).

"Your brain only knows what you tell it, so as soon as you feel stress, repeat a mantra or visualize a place where you feel loved and calm," says Kathleen Hall, PhD, founder and director of the Atlanta-based Stress Institute and author of A Life in Balance (American Management Association, 2006). Or simply reflect on what makes you thankful. "It's impossible to experience gratitude and the stress response at the same time," says Hall.

  Most things give way to simple resolutions if you are patient

 It's no secret that moderate exercise is a powerful natural anti-depressant, releasing endorphins and regulating blood sugar. But too much activity can trigger the brain's stress response, releasing cortisol and adrenaline. Balance long runs with easy hikes, and factor in at least one day of recovery per week "We're all about yin and yang," says Robyn Benson, DOM, founder of Santa Fe Soul natural health and healing center in New Mexico. "If you're the type of person who puts all her energy out there through exercise, you need to find ways to build yourself back up, whether it's yoga, tai chi, or low-key walking."