A few words about stress from Doctor Paul J. Rosch, president of The American Institute of Stress. The New York-based non-profit institute is dedicated to understanding the role of stress in health and illness.

Dr. Rosch has done extensive research on stress and stress prevention. Here’s what he has to say about dealing with what has been called America’s #1 Health Problem.

Rosch said there are many ways to reduce stress such as meditation, exercise and yoga. The important thing to remember is that people stress over different things so there is not a one-for-all technique to reduce stress, Rosch said.

For example, he said, “Jogging and meditation are great for some people, but when arbitrarily imposed on others, actually prove to be stressful.” So while treating the effects of stress, try to also focus on preventing stress through time management, assertiveness training, appropriate goal setting and prioritizing, Rosch said.

Here are a few of Dr. Rosch’s stress busters

Before you let something really get to you, ask yourself, “Will it really make much difference five years from now?”

Curl your toes against the soles of your feet as hard as you can for fifteen seconds, and then relax. Next progressively tense and relax your legs, stomach, back, shoulders, and neck muscles in the same fashion. These exercises can be done anywhere and in any order, and provide both physical and mental relief.

Try to relax as much as possible in a comfortable and quiet environment, with your eyes closed, and breathe quietly in a slow, but rhythmic and regular fashion.

Visualize you are on the beach, listening to the waves coming in, and feeling the warm sun and gentle breezes on your back.

Take a walk or go window shopping for ten or fifteen minutes

Take 20-30 minutes out of each day to do whatever you want, including nothing at all.