What are some good techniques to lessen stress?

My Dr. always says just take a few minutes for yourself,then take some deep breathes,then just close eyes and see something nice,like the ocean..

Long walk, chocolate, plenty of time doing things....

A walk, a hot bath, read, deep breathing, listening to music, a nap.

yoga!

1st, realize it and try to identify what prompted or triggered this physiological reaction. I find it hepful to relax the shoulders back down and breathe from your diaphragm instead of your shoulders. Notice how babies breathe by watching their tummies(diaphragm) rise and fall, you should do the same. Positive self-talk is good. Remove yourself from the stresful situation if you can. Have quiet time. Some of my riends like Yoga to assist with this.

journal, talk therapy (see a therapist weekly or biweekly to get whatever is bothering you out), write what is on your plate (on a paper plate), sometimes visually is better to access what is going on.., hot bath, nice quiet walk (doesn't have to be far). I sometime drive (across the street and sit in my car just to watch the river- it just happens to be a quiet place for me, listening to guided imagery (usually a tape or CD that you listen to while relaxing that takes you on a meditative journey lasting 10 to 30 min long)- I have 6 of these. I love them, cup of hot tea (tis the season),

After posting, I looked up just stress relief:
here is a site you can try... alot of suggestions here:
http://stress.about.com/od/tensiontamers/a/stressrelievers.htm

Sleep, exercise, drink lots of water, and if financial, brainstorm on how to reduce debt and increase savings.