The causes of stress can be complex or simple, just as stress relief can be complex or simple. It is the simple things in life that are sometimes more necessary and more appreciated than the complex.

Some very simple methods of stress relief; breathing exercises, gentle touches, pleasant sounds, visualization, drinking pure water, smiling and laughing. Most of these stress relievers can be done anywhere at any time. The most difficult part is realizing when you need it and actually doing it.

Breathing Exercises: Just taking 3 slow, deep breaths can cause us to react more realistically than we otherwise would have.

Gentle Touches: Whether you touch someone or they touch you, the simple act of gentle physical contact can keep us grounded on a more pleasant reality.

Pleasant Sounds: This can be soft music, white noise or a baby's cooing. Sounds are so effective on our state of mind and state of health that GE has recently developed a product specifically to treat health problems with soft sounds.

Visualization: Imagine yourself on your favorite beach, or in your favorite relaxing restaurant, or on a trip you hope to take someday. Any happy visual stimulation will help get stressors off your over-stressed mind.

Pure Water: Water is necessary for healthy brain function. A dehydrated brain will be more prone to stress and be less prone to handling stress effectively.

Smile: Even if you don't mean it. Put a big smile on your face, keep it there, and you may be surprised to find that you end up finding a reason to smile.

Laughter: Find ways to laugh and things to laugh at. Laughter will relieve simple stress almost immediately.