1. Exercise
Exercise is one of the most important things you can do to combat stress.

It might seem contradictory, but putting physical stress on your body through exercise can relieve mental stress.

The benefits are strongest when you exercise regularly. People who exercise regularly are less likely to experience anxiety than those who don’t exercise (1).

There are a few reasons behind this:

Stress hormones: Exercise lowers your body’s stress hormones — such as cortisol — in the long run. It also helps release endorphins, which are chemicals that improve your mood and act as natural painkillers.
Sleep: Exercise can also improve your sleep quality, which can be negatively affected by stress and anxiety.
Confidence: When you exercise regularly, you may feel more competent and confident in your body, which in turn promotes mental wellbeing.
Try to find an exercise routine or activity you enjoy, such as walking, dancing, rock climbing or yoga.
Activities — such as walking or jogging — that involve repetitive movements of large muscle groups can be particularly stress relieving.

2. Consider supplements
Certain supplements can reduce stress and anxiety, including ashwagandha, omega-3 fatty acids, green tea and lemon balm.

3. Light a candle
Aromatherapy can help lower anxiety and stress. Light a candle or use essential oils to benefit from calming scents.

4. Reduce your caffeine intake
High quantities of caffeine can increase stress and anxiety. However, people’s sensitivity to caffeine can vary greatly.

5. Write it down
Keeping a journal can help relieve stress and anxiety, especially if you focus on the positive.

6. Chew gum
According to several studies, chewing gum may help you relax. It may also promote wellbeing and reduce stress.

7. Spend time with friends and family
Having strong social ties may help you get through stressful times and lower your risk of anxiety.

8. Laugh
Find the humor in everyday life, spend time with funny friends or watch a comedy show to help relieve stress.

9. Learn to say no
Try not to take on more than you can handle. Saying no is one way to control your stressors.

10. Learn to avoid procrastination
Prioritize what needs to get done and make time for it. Staying on top of your to-do list can help ward off procrastination-related stress.

11. Take a yoga class
Yoga is widely used for stress reduction. It may help lower stress hormone levels and blood pressure.

12. Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness practices can help lower symptoms of anxiety and depression.

13. Cuddle
Positive touch from cuddling, hugging, kissing and sex may help lower stress by releasing oxytocin and lowering blood pressure.

14. Listen to soothing music
Listening to music you like can be a good way to relieve stress.

15. Deep breathing
Deep breathing activates the relaxation response. Multiple methods can help you learn how to breathe deeply.

16. Spend time with your pet
Spending time with your pet is a relaxing, enjoyable way to reduce stress.