A CALMER YOU IN 60 SECONDS

Feeling frazzled? These easy techniques will help you de-stress – fast!

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Constantly frantic and on edge? Stress affects us all - 91%* of Brits say they've experienced high or extreme levels in the past year. But the good news is, there are simple ways to get your 'fight or flight' response under control and create a feeling of tranquility in seconds. So when it all gets that bit too much, try one of these gentle exercises...

1 SOOTHE WORRIES

Feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Breathe out these feelings with a long exhale, suggests breathing expert Stuart Sandeman. 'Activate your parasympathetic response with a prolonged out-breath – if you calm your breath, your mind will follow.'

* Inhale through your nose for a count of four, feeling your belly rise.

* Hold breath for four, keeping calm and still throughout.

* Exhale through your mouth for eight. Relax your shoulders, face, jaw, behind your eyes and forehead.

* Repeat until you feel relaxed.

2 EASE PANIC