When the stock market is about as stable as plutonium, it is understandable that the stress levels of many an alpha male go haywire. Even if you don’t work in the City, these are uncertain times. I don’t want to go all life coach and tell you to fly off and commune with a guru in some far-flung ashram – if you’re a typical type-A personality, that is only going to wind you up even more. However, it’s a good idea to develop an exercise regime to combat stress.

When you’re under pressure, your body produces cortisol. In small doses, this hormone is beneficial – it boosts alertness, improves memory and helps you to cope. Unfortunately, severe stress produces an overload. The adrenal glands secrete more and more cortisol, which results in a blood-sugar imbalance that may cause high levels of fatigue, a decrease in muscle mass and an increase in fat storage.

The natural male response to stress is to do an aggressive workout or to take part in competitive sports. This is an in-built response to the “flight or fight” impulse that stress activates. The problem is that this approach produces more testosterone, which may actually make you feel more stressed. You need to avoid high-intensity workouts, such as heavy weight training. Instead, do sets of 15 or more reps using lighter weights. You should also focus your cardiovascular work on constant pace training, rather than high-intensity interval training. And it might be best to skip a competitive game of squash.

These suggestions are really only for when you are seriously stressed. As cortisol and adrenaline levels fall, your body has a better chance of coping with stress, so just calm it down a bit. Chanting is optional . . .

LET IT RAIN

The new AquaMac Tompkin by Aquascutum is a lightweight and stylish option for weather-ready outer wear. The bright colours, single-breasted design and raglan sleeves all set it apart from formal raincoats, and it handily tucks away neatly into an in-built pocket between showers.

£295; 0800 282922

DESERT STORM

Having been bought by Prada, it’s no surprise the traditional English shoe brand Church’s has a snappy new image.Its desert boots now come in an arrayof eye-catching shades. Team them with rolled-up cotton pants, or use them to dress down the modish grey sheen suits that are all the rage this summer.

£200; 020 7734 2438

ALL MAN

Dolce & Gabbana The One for Men is sure to speak to virile, athletic types. A crisp, robust blend – it fuses citrus notes with a warm tobacco-and-amber base – you can imagine it being worn by highflying power-brokers who stride through hectic schedules of invigorating gym sessions and top-level meetings.

£35 for 50ml