I myself enjoy putting on relaxing music with a rainfall soundtrack in the background, going into my steam room and making the room pitch black dark, maybe lighting a few scented candles and relaxing with my partner in there for some time. What about you guys?
A number of things. Working out helps. Going for walks too. I love sitting in the heat of the sun (the hotter the better) and reading. Failing that, a good Gin & Tonic works.
Taking a long, leisurely stroll with my dog works for me. Routine work also helps; nothing too cerebral. Stress and concentration do not go well together. But best of all, reading a book takes the mind to wonderful places. It has to be the right sort of book though, something I am passionately interested in. A dog is man's best friend, so I have been told, but there is no substitute for a good book. Of course, let's not forget the internet. Random aimless browsing can also be therapeutic.
The days I'd read a book are long gone I think. I'm getting to love 3D modeling and it's much better IMHO. The more I do it, I get to like it more. Anytime I feel stressed or just tired, I'll fire up Blender [it's the only good cheap alternative to good 3D modeling software] and lose myself in the 3D world.
I also turn to music to help me unwind. I think you'll find that's the case for a lot of people. It's an easy way to forget about your problems and it helps you to relax. Exercise is also another way to combat stress, putting your energy into a sport or at the gym can help.
I look out of my window and stare at the beautiful scenery without thinking about anything, just plainly appreciating nature around me. Sometimes I would just relax on a couch and close my eyes for awhile. It helps me rest my eyes and my mind a bit before engaging to work once again.
Ah yes, going for walks would be high up on my list too, especially when they're late at night. I'm afraid that I can't relax with alcohol though! Trying to quit
Dogs are amazing. I've a gorgeous white lab retriever at home and she's always looking to go on another walk! Mentioning the pet thing though, I also love relaxing and letting my cat (if she'll let me). There was a recent study that showed that pettig a cat daily reduces heart problems due to stress and is actually quite beneficial to your health!
I can see how this helps. I don't have blender myself, but on a semi related note, creating things is always relaxing, be it building a house on the sims (video game) or making papercrafts. Have you been modeling for long?
If it's an option in your area, go to a mountain, or a mountain/ forest walk far away from anyone else. Find a spot to gaze at the scenery there. It can be absolutely breathtaking, especially if you're lucky enough to catch the sunrise! (Be careful hiking at night though).
