In the pool, she keeps her body parallel to the bottom and her head titled at 45 degrees. Amateur athlete Jessica Stultz (CWR '02) knows about proper positioning, but that doesn't mean she always feels centered.

Like many time-strapped go-getters, Stultz has to work to stave off stress.

Are you on overload (or on autopilot)? It might be time to give your neurons a break. By taking regular respites from the rush, Stultz says, you'll attack the day with more energy and enjoyment.

If that sounds impractical, breathe easy, literally. "It doesn't take long to train your mind to relax," Stultz says. There are several pathways to mindfulness, including meditation, de-cluttering and regular exercise. Stultz prefers yoga, which she practices three times a week at a local studio. Ready to chill out?

Yoga works for people of all shapes and sizes. "No matter your fitness level, you're bound to come back to your desk more attentive and relaxed than before," Stultz says.

Pick a suitable style. Learn about various yoga classes online or at your local gym. Stultz suggests beginning with a "vinyasa" class, a breath-synchronized style involving a series of poses called sun salutations. "If you can't make it to a gym," she says, "try it at home for 20 minutes."

Make the class about you. "Yoga isn't about how long you can hold a pose," Stultz says. "Choose an instructor who encourages you to listen to your body."

Not into yoga? Try this: Breathe in deeply as you count from one. Then breathe out for twice that number. Repeat about 10 times.