How do you relax?

Jessica over at Life As Mom, who just had a new baby, is hosting her weekly Toolin' Up Tuesday and today she asks, What Helps You Relax?

For me, there are a number of different things that help me relax. A personal favorite, but one that I don't seem to have the time for, is soaking in a nice, hot bubble bath with a good book.

When I'm at work and stress levels are up and/or my mind is racing, I have found that a walk around the block can help me relax and get back in focus. It may not sound relaxing, but it really does bring down stress levels and give me a fresh perspective on things. If I'm walking with someone, we talk. A nice distraction that allows the rest of my brain to sort and sift. If I'm walking alone, the downtime allows my brain to process through stuff and by the time I return, things are back in order. You know how things that you can't remember always seem to come to you at the most random times? My theory is that our brains are so busy most of the time that they need some downtime to sort through things and "find" what you are looking for.

Another way that I relax/unwind is to work a Sudoku puzzle. I'm addicted. I love the challenge and I work a puzzle every night at bedtime. I don't always finish a puzzle every night, but I work at one until I can't keep my eyes open. It seems strange to me that working a puzzle is relaxing, but for me it is.

For other ideas/tools for relaxation, check out Jessica's post at Life As Mom. And, while you are there, check out that little "FishChick" she had earlier this week. What a cutie!