To be in control of your stress, breath!

Stress is a major problem and there are others ways than medication: it's learning how to be in control. There is a simple technique that everyone knows already but don't use it: breathing!
The awareness of breathing will give you more control of your stress!
Here an article writed by Al Sears, MD:

Is Stress Beating You Up?

Contrary to what you see in many ads for weight-loss products, the stress hormone cortisol does not directly cause weight gain. But I just came across a convincing study showing that stress over long periods can trigger increased insulin. And too much insulin can lead to weight gain.

Remember that insulin is the hormone that regulates fat storage. And many of us tend to eat high-carb, sugary "comfort foods" when we're stressed. Here's a better way to deal with stress: Whenever you feel stressed, turn your conscious attention to your breathing.

At first, don't try to alter your breathing in any way. Just observe it. Do that right now, while you're reading this. Notice which muscles you are using. Notice the seamless transition from inhalation to exhalation. Feel it in every part of your body. This focus of your attention is therapeutic in itself.

Now, simply take a little longer to exhale. Slowly, smoothly, quietly blow out just a little more air. Feel the physical tension release, and you will forget all about the stress.

This is a source of great power in every sense of the word. Your muscles relax, then recharge. Your mind becomes still, then refocused. Your cortisol levels come down... and you are ready for the world again.

Make this a ritual. Just five minutes of focused breathing twice a day can make a remarkable difference.

[Ed. Note: Dr. Sears, a practicing physician and the author of The Doctor's Heart Cure, is a leading authority on longevity, physical fitness, and heart health.]

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