Squeeze this into your schedule, between the strategy session with the boss and your daughter's piano recital: a walk to the water fountain, a total-body stretch, a minute of nothing -- just for you. Such simple stress-busters can do wonders for your head and your health. Here are others.

Use your imagination. The guy who just cut you off in traffic could be rushing to the bedside of his wife, who has just awoken after spending the last 15 years in a coma. Far-fetched, but it's possible. Give the guy a break, and you'll probably keep your cool, too.

Go low-tech. You don't have to answer the phone every time it rings. And let your e-mail wait until morning -- it will still be there.

Make a date. Meet a friend for a walk or coffee each week. That way, you'll be sure to have some social contact outside work.

Bow your head. Take time in the morning to quietly meditate, reflect, or pray -- it can be a time of peace in an otherwise-harried day.

Get a massage. A half-hour massage improves circulation along with your mood. If money is tight, try a warm bath or massage your feet instead.

Be a do-gooder. Even a once-a-month volunteer gig can help you forget about your own problems while you focus on helping someone else.

Skip the late news. Getting the proper amount of sleep means you're better equipped to handle what comes your way.

Act like a child. How did you play when you were a kid? Did you like to dance? Sign up for salsa lessons. Bake? Make a batch of cookies for your children, coworkers, or neighbors. Read? Finger-paint? Explore? Swing on the monkey bars at the playground? Just because you're a grownup doesn't mean you can't have fun.

Three ways to get started:

Good: Take a walk. A mere 10 minutes of brisk walking is enough to improve your mood and reduce tension.

Better: Take a walk with a dog. Pet owners are less stressed than those without canine companions.

Best: Walk with a dog, and think like him, too. Dogs don't dwell on the past or worry about the future. They truly live in the moment -- the healthiest place for your head to be, too.