Anna, Editorial Assistant

When I was in high school, my mom had a rule that if I was mad at her, we could only talk about it after my swim practice. She knew my high-strung tendencies all too well and knew that, for me, I need time to diffuse the situation. For the most part, I'm much more even tempered, but when I get mad, before I start an argument or say things I might regret, I need to think--and sweat--it out at the gym. I've become so well conditioned to the fact that physical activity reduces stress for me that I actually make sure to schedule extra time for the gym during extra busy weeks. Case in point: this morning was a typical rushed morning, I couldn't find my keys, and I left the apartment 15 minutes later than I meant to. I was already frazzled when I got to the bus stop, which was completely crowded. Instead of waiting for the bus and the inevitable jostling, I walked to the subway--about half a mile from my apartment. Even though it took 15 minutes, I feel like what it saved (my sanity!) was immeasurable.