Massage
Although nothing replaces human touch for stress relief and relaxation, you can try a self-massager. Some malls and stores have massage chairs you can try while you wait. The mall chairs are quarter fed, but check the pharmacy area at CVS for a free try.

Chamomile Tea
When we're stressed, we often reach for quick-fixes like coffee or sweets. Why not try a cup of chamomile tea instead? Chamomile tea is believed to promote relaxation & ease digestion. Animal studies suggest chamomile may work in a similar way to anti-anxiety medication. The proper way of making a cup of chamomile tea is this: Use 1 teabag or 2 tsp of chamomile flowers. Add hot but not boiling water. Steep for 5 min and then remove the teabag or strain.

Music for Stress Relief
The idea of using music to soothe and comfort us has been around for ages. Today, clinical trials show that music may help to reduce pain, boost energy, lower heart rate, and decrease anxiety. Classical music is a good choice for stress. Try listening to Mozart while you're working, for focus and calm. Or choose slow, soft music to fill you with a sense of peace & mental quiet. Instead of music, another option is to put on headphones & listen to comedy on an audio tape or on the radio during your lunch. Laughter increases mood-enhancing chemicals called endorphins, decreases stress hormones, and releases anger and hostility.

Visualization
Visualization is an easy-to-learn relaxation technique. Here's how to do it: Sit in a comfortable position. Breathe deeply (which helps to relax muscles and quiet the mind). Now imagine a scene that you find calming. It might help to pick somewhere you've been before.   Say you're imagining yourself lying on a big cozy chair in front of a sunny window. Think of the way the warm sun feels against your skin. Imagine the scent of fresh-cut grass and sweet flowers around you. Imagine how clear & blue the sky is. Listen to the birds as they gently play in the trees. The more vivid your image is and the more senses you involve, the more effective it will be.

If your mind is plagued with problems and concerns you just can't stop thinking about, you can use visualization to help get on a better track.  Imagine a giant eraser and erase the people or issues that are bothering you.  That can be very helpful in dealing with needless worry.

Aromatherapy
The aroma of certain plants may help to calm or energize us.  Aromatherapy is a branch of herbal medicine that uses concentrated oils that have been extracted from plants.  It has been used in Europe for over 100 years.  Aromatherapy can have a profound effect on the nervous system.  When oils are inhaled, the molecules go to the top of the nose and send signals to areas of the brain that govern heart rate, breathing, stress, and hormones.  One of the most popular stress-relieving aromas is lavender. Citrus oils, like mandarin or neroli, can help brighten mood & soothe nerves. Add a couple of drops to a handkerchief or tissue and inhale.

Other Tips for Stress Relief
If you are experiencing stress, consult a professional. Frequent or intense stress that hinders your daily life may be a sign of an anxiety disorder. The negative mental and physical effects are cumulative, so the longer you are stressed the worse it can be for you.

This is not intended as medical advice which should be obtained directly from your doctor.