We all face things that increase our stress levels in our day-to-day lives. To keep healthy, it's important that we recognize them and learn to deal with them properly.

The body responds to stress — little irritations and big problems - in a number of ways. There is an increased release of adrenalin into the blood stream, muscles tense, breathing quickens, and heart rate and blood pressure go up. This reaction - known as the "fight or flight" response helped humans to survive.

This natural response to stress is still with us, but, unlike our ancestors, we have to take our time and deal with things more calmly.

Studies in Canada show that a combination of relaxation and physical activity can help.