Your response to stress is what causes stress. Stress alone has no power over you, stress is  is an obstacle in the brain. It is an obstacle that can be overcome.

Stress can be overcome by training your body and mind to cope. Stress results in shallow breathing: shallow breathing is the result of inputs in your mind and body; inputs such as thoughts, fears which result in an emotional reaction to external events.

The inputs you put into your body and mind make a difference. A difference can be made by being active physically. Physical activity can help the body to release stress and the effect stress causes such as weight gain/loss, blood pressure, heart problems etc

Meditation helps because it allows you to  listen to your body, your heart, your breathing. Meditation requires slow breathing. It allows you to take more oxygen into your body to slow down the thoughts that are causing you to worry. Meditation allows you to discover yourself, to empty the inputs/thoughts in your brain and to recharge your energy. Meditation is not about escaping: it is about discovering your inner feelings.

Spend time in the present moment without allowing your thoughts to overwhelm you. When you focus on the present you train your mind to understand the past or future has no power of you. Use the tools of meditation and breathing to help you live a stress free life.