
Originally Posted by
kitstreasure
Try splitting firewood. Splitting firewood is repetitive enough to almost be a meditation, productive, and since it's hitting something with a big ol' sledgehammer it's quite cathartic.
Woodworking can be something else that is productive, but very good for stress relief.
I also find hard core cleaning is great for stress relief, can be a bit of a work out, and is productive.
Try doing yard work for an elderly neighbor or a single mom. It's service to your fellow man, physical enough to wear you out and allow stress relief, and allows you to work on your tan.
Keep a gratitude journal. In a gratitude journal you write down 5 things a day that you are grateful for. It can be something as simple as, "a great cup of coffee".
Do breathing exercises.
Go do something you enjoy with your best friend.
Get a massage, a facial, a pedicure or some other body care service that you enjoy.
Go to a "pick your own" farm and pick your week's produce.
Study a new skill. (It allows you to read and still be productive.)
Go Mountain biking.
FWIW, 500mg of Valerian root a couple times a day will help keep you from becoming stressed to begin with. Valerian root is known as "Nature's Valium". While you are on it, you won't really FEEL any different; you will just suddenly realize that things that normally get to you are having no effect at all.
HTH,
-Treasure.