How to Fight Cholesterol and Wrinkles in One Step

Those furrows between your brows? They're a sign that not only are your birthdays increasing but your lousy LDL cholesterol may be too. And stress can accelerate both. It's one of the big agers of skin and body, especially the nagging, unfinished-tasks kind of stress that hangs over you day after day.

We don't fully understand how emotional stress produces physical stress, but we do know the connection's powerful: During the 30 days after September 11, 2001, heart attacks increased about threefold not only in New York and Washington but also in Missouri, Chicago, Kansas City, and Alabama. Even implanted defibrillators—devices that normalize dangerous heart rhythms—kicked into action more than twice as often during that time. We all felt out of control.

Fortunately, you have more power than Botox when it comes to reducing the effects of stress on your face and body. When the pressure is on, instead of raiding the vending machine, take a walk. If even a 10-minute walk is out of the question, try this deep breathing micro-break (it also helps flatten your belly): Inhale deeply through your nose. Then exhale slowly through your mouth; as you do, feel your belly button (go ahead, we’ll wait) go toward your spine; hold it there briefly. Repeat three or four times. Savor the calm…and let the rest of 'em wonder who your plastic surgeon is.

Even more fun: If you're in a monogamous relationship and can manage it, try some noontime sex. It helps you produce nitric oxide, which is better than many lunches for your arteries' health and facial glow.