Investing in Yoga mats and taking part in some gentle stretching sessions could help people lift their mood, according to Michelle Clemons.

The mindfulness-based master practitioner of neuro linguistic programming and author of Transforming Stress to Success explained that getting involved in something active could help individuals feel better this autumn.

"I suggest making a list of whatever physical activities you enjoy, but avoid thinking about the word ’exercise’ as it puts up a psychological barrier for many of us," she said.

"Walking the dog, playing with the kids, pottering about in the garden, going dancing - all of these will help to reduce stress and lift one’s mood. Other less physical activities can include watching comedy films or comedy TV series DVDs, or reading humorous books. Laughter therapy really works, and it’s something that we all enjoy," Ms Clemons added.

Her remarks came after Maureen Dowd of the New York Times advised that Yoga is the best way to ameliorate the strain of working.

"I’ve tried various remedies for the ravages of stress: better nutrition, caramels, gym, green tea Popsicles, kava kava, kale, kombucha, cupcakes, chocolate, Chardonnay - sometimes in concurrent combinations. The one that works best is Yoga," she wrote.

The writer was reviewing a book called The Science of Yoga: The Myths and the Rewards by New York Times science writer William Broad, who has practised Yoga since attending college in 1970, and explained that the book’s author goes into detail about how the exercise affects the mind and body.

"Being a vegetarian reduces the level of testosterone in the body, but Yoga appears to raise it, as well as lowering fight-or-flight hormones and improving circulation and inner flexibility," she said.

Mr Broad also points out the number of famous people whose decision to invest in quality Yoga mats has helped them with their aches and pains, including violinist and conductor Yehudi Menuhin, rock star Sting and Philadelphia Orchestra conductor Leopold Stokowski.