The cliche advice “take a deep breath” really isn’t so cliche. The sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight) tends to go into a bit of overdrive during high stress times. The parasympathetic nervous system, the other side of the coin, works in balance with the sympathetic. And it’s a nice long exhale that helps kick the parasympathetic a bit more.

So, for a quick, very minor calming effect during the day when a stressful even hits, take a pause, and take 10 deep breaths. Savor the exhale all the more on each breath, letting a little stress go with each breath that goes out. Count each exhale as it takes as long as it wants to, and when you get to 10, there may be a hint less stress in the body.

Of course, it’s still up to you not to bring more in.