It helps to restore balance. It also aids in relaxation and helps to clear the mind to cope. A support network of family and friends is very important. It helps to be able to talk to others and feel less isolated in life. This helps to put perspective back into your life and you are more able to cope with the stress.
Exercise helps by reducing anxiety levels, feelings of helplessness, depression and hostility.
It also helps to reduce many physical symptoms such as muscle tension. Beta-endorphins are hormones that give a sense of pleasure in the nervous system and work with your immune system to help fight off sickness. Perspective is very important during stressful experiences. Stress is both positive and negative and must be put into perspective. If we all have this perspective when we are under stress, I think that many of our stressors would become a more positive influence.