Stress or anger makes us breathe quickly and shallowly, and when tired or exasperated, we are more likely to sigh. Similarly, we may feel annoyance coming from someone who sighs a lot.

Before your conversation, take some deep, calming breaths, breathing out longer than you breathe in. Ex...

Often when we’re wide awake worrying, we’re focused on something that’s happening in the future. Mindfulness can be a powerful antidote as it directs your attention towards what’s happening in the present: focus on your breathing or focus physical sensations like how warm your bed sheets feel.

• Deep breathing. Close your eyes and take deep, slow breaths, making each breath even deeper than the last.
• Progressive muscle relaxation. Starting with your toes, tense all the muscles as tightly as you can, then completely relax. Work your way up to...