
Exercise is my go-to destress strategy, and if my primary goal is reducing tension, I prefer to work out without a buddy. While being active works wonders for me, there are times when all I want to do is pour a glass of red wine and escape with a good book. You shared some excellent ideas when I asked
how you tend to get rid of stress; here are the 10 most popular ways to find release.

It's a wonderful time of year, with the Fall leaves changing and multiple holiday gatherings with family and friends in the pipeline. Unfortunately, the busy season can make our already thinly spread lives more stressful than usual, which can lead to overeating and restless nights.
Exercise is always an
effective way to destress, but some women find solace in things like cooking, reading, watching an episode of their favorite TV show, talking it out with their partner or friends, taking a leisurely shower or bath, and even cleaning can be a productive way to work through built-up tension.

The word on the street is that couples are having more sex these days because of all the stress and overwhelming fear that's lingering in the air. And if you think about it, it makes perfect sense. Sex is a great stress reliever and it's the one thing that can make you feel utterly connected to someone — a comforting feeling during these uncertain times.

We've talked about our own
workout mantras before, but mantras are amazing little things. They not only motivate you, a good mantra can also work to relieve stress, too. In fact mantras can help people stay calm by easing frustration and tension.

Lavender is an incredibly soothing scent and there is now
research to prove it. Evidence suggests that the scent of lavender may help slow the activity of the nervous system and promote relaxation. One way to reap the benefits of lavender is using lavender oil as a massage oil.

Sometimes when your body and mind need to relax, you need to help coax it along a little. If you don't have the time for a
salt soak or
massage, and you aren't in the mood for
a cup of tea, you've got to try using an eye pillow!
They're filled with flaxseeds, and often contain dried calming herbs like lavender and chamomile.

Missed your flight because your dog decided to walk himself? Freaking out because you can only bring 3 oz of contact lens solution on the plane and all they sell are 4 oz travel size bottles? Ahhhhh.

Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself when you are feeling stressed is to turn to someone else.
All those stresses can get bottled up and gabbing with a supportive pal about life and what's ailing you (or her) can instantly relieve stress. Talking about your problems not only helps you gain perspective, but you can usually brainstorm some ideas to try in those troublesome times.