You may not realize how damaging stress can be to your body, especially because it seems like such a normal part of life. But consider what happens to your body when it's under stress: Your heart rate and blood pressure increase; your breathing becomes rapid, which makes your lungs work harder; and your muscles tense up in preparation for action. This physical response is relatively harmless if it occurs every once in a while, but when it becomes a constant state, it can hurt you. That's why it's so important to make stress reduction a daily part of your life. Even simple stress relievers such as lighting some fragrant candles, reading a book, or taking a walk can make a difference. If you're extremely stressed, you may want to take advantage of more in-depth stress relief methods, such as meditation or massage therapy. Exercise is another great stress reliever, and it can boost your mood as well. You can consult a chiropractor on other stress relief methods to relieve muscle tension and other aches and pains. A chiropractor may also be able to suggest certain vitamins or supplements to help your body deal with stress, and he or she may even prescribe a special diet. It's also a good idea to talk to your chiropractor about the possible causes of your stress and your specific physical reaction, as he or she may be able to help you calm yourself and relax your muscles through gentle stretches.