Q. I’ve heard that it’s possible to reduce stress by switching from one cerebral hemisphere to the other. Is there anything to that and, if so, how does one accomplish that feat?

A. Some researchers advocate this strategy as another tool for your stress-reduction kit. First you need to figure out which cerebral hemisphere is primarily involved. For example, if you feel emotionally distraught overwhelmed, or discouraged, your right hemisphere may need a time-out (it has higher numbers of connectors to the emotional brain layer or limbic system than does the left hemisphere). Consciously switch to the left hemisphere by engaging in a matter-of-fact task that uses left-brain functions such as balancing your checkbook (assuming, of course, that your stress will not be exacerbated because you have been writing checks for which there are no funds)! Make a list, or organize your closet or office space. Read some factual prose, write a set of pros and cons about a problem you need to solve, or repeat passages that you have memorized.

If, on the other hand, you feel stressed by deadlines and overburdened with time constraints, your left hemisphere may need a break. Switch to the right hemisphere by singing, playing a game for fun, taking a walk, writing a poem, engaging in some creative artistry, reading a story, or spending a few moments in meditation or deep breathing.

Experiment to see what types of activities work best for you and give you the most relief. Pay attention to your brain and your body when you do these switching activities. Identify how you feel and notice whether or not your stress is somewhat relieved. Remember that it’s different strokes for different folks. The discovery process can help you to reduce stress in a given situation as well as give you valuable information about yourself and your brain function.