I don't have to tell you that stress is omnipresent these days. Rising prices, stock market drops, jobs lost. It's virtually impossible to find someone who's not impacted by the current economic trouble, and the effects go way beyond your 401(k). Stress, as research has shown (and my own life has proven) is not good for anyone's health. I'm a big believer in mind over "What's the matter?" and I know it's possible to go from grumpy to grinning just by flexing some mental muscle. Next time you have a "bad" day, try to outwit the stress hormones coursing through your veins with these simple tips:

-- Got a case of the grouchies? Try to conjure some positive vibes, as hard as it may seem. Answer the phone cheerfully. Say "Good morning" even if it feels like a grim day. Or greet the receptionist kindly when you get to work. Soon you'll be sunny side up. Why? If you fake happy, you'll make yourself happy.

-- Feeling impatient? Rather than fuming over the fact that you've been parked on the runway for 45 minutes (or in line at the store or waiting at the doctor's office), focus on five positive things around you -- the friend or relative you're about to see, the sun and gorgeous clouds on the horizon, the great book you're looking forward to reading, etc. Distract yourself and you'll be better able to savor the present rather than rushing through it.

-- Are you a worrier? We all catastrophize sometimes. It's human nature. But too much negative thinking can be unhealthy and create stress where none exists. Consider what's behind your fretting. Your fear (that your headache is a brain tumor) could be masking a solvable problem (you should take better care of your health). Realizing that anxieties are manageable makes it easier to release them.

-- Having a blue period? Research shows that two of the best ways to soup up your spirits are exercise and music. Take a few minutes to pump up the jams and dance around in your office, in the shower, whenever the mood strikes. You'll instantly segue into high-energy mode.

If you've got a great way to shift your spirits, share yours and get more ideas on SELF's Trade Happiness Tips forum at Self.com.