Tips to Manage Anxiety and Stress When you're feeling anxious or stressed, these strategies will help you cope: Take a time-out. Practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques. Stepping back from the problem helps clear your head. Eat well-balanced meals. Do not skip any meals. Do keep healthful, energy-boosting snacks on hand. Limit alcohol and caffeine , which can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks. Get enough sleep. When stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest. Exercise daily to help you feel good and maintain your health. Check out the fitness tips below. Take deep breaths . Inhale and exhale slowly. Count to 10 slowly . Repeat, and count to 20 if necessary. Do your best . Instead of aiming for perfection, which isn't possible, be proud of however close you get. Accept that you cannot control everything . Put your stress in perspective: Is it really as bad as you think? Welcome humor . A goo