Unless you’re lucky enough to have retired early and live on a tropical island, stress is likely a part of your everyday life. Being stressed out, however, doesn’t have to be. A little bit of stress is actually good for us because it keeps us focused and motivated. But too much stress has the opposite effect, causing us to feel overwhelmed and like we can’t get anything done.

While we don’t always have control over what happens to us, we do have control over how we react. This includes managing life’s stressors in ways that are conducive to a healthy lifestyle. After all, being overly anxious isn’t only taking a toll on your mental health. It can affect you physically, too. The more stress you hold onto, the weaker your immune system becomes. This makes you extra susceptible to colds, the flu, and even chronic and life-threatening illnesses.

To avoid blowing a fuse and turning to alcohol, drugs, and other substances to escape the pressures of the daily grind, try incorporating these simple tips and practices into your routine for a healthier approach to stress management.

• Deep breathing. Diaphragmatic or “deep breathing” exercises reoxygenate your blood, which helps you relax almost instantly. Start by placing your hand on your abdomen just below your navel. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold your breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly and repeat.

• It may sound New Age-y, but visualization has been proven to be effective at reducing stress. Set aside 10 minutes to sit with your eyes closed, imagining the sights, smells, and sounds of a relaxing locale, such as a beach or meadow.

• Scents like lavender, peppermint, rose, and eucalyptus are soothing for the mind and body. Put a few pieces of rock salt in a small vial and add a couple of drops of the oil of your choice. Open the vial and breathe the scent whenever you feel stressed out for a quick relief.

• Just say “No.” Have too much on your plate? Once you stop trying to do everything for everyone else, you’ll find that you’re better able to meet your own needs. It won’t hurt other people’s feelings as much as you think. We promise.

• Get moving. Exercise boosts the production of your brain's feel-good neurotransmitters, called endorphins. Being active also improves your sleep, which is often disrupted by stress, depression and anxiety. Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity every week.