Here are some pearls of wisdom from real women who have found inventive ways of keeping stress in check, and lead healthier, happier, more balanced lives.

Julie Nauss, Nova Scotia

I am a writer, so my favorite way to unwind is to curl up with a pen and pad of paper and create stories from my never-ending imagination ! Escaping from reality, for a little while is a great way for me to unwind !

Michelle Lefroy, Alberta

I close my eyes, take five deep breaths just focus on the breath itself... Shutting down all else... Suddenly, I have more strength and a clear mind to deal with all the challenges coming my way.

Dianne Gardner, Alberta

Having my home ready for the holidays helps me to unwind. I come home to my surroundings looking festive and the gifts all wrapped, so I can unwind, looking at the twinkling lights with my feet up enjoying a warm drink.

Shelley Adrian, British Columbia

Sitting in front of a waterfall or ocean and looking into the waves and sound, alone to my thoughts or with a loved one sitting in front of an open fire, quietly gazing into the fire and losing my thoughts to each flicker of the flame.

Ester Sekeris, Ontario

I like to cook to unwind. I am so focused on the recipe I am making that I get distracted. What follows is the sweet aroma of home cooking and that is relaxing !

Linda Parker, New Brunswick

In my line of work I'm usually going pretty steady(real estate); my favourite way to unwind is to have a small glass of white wine, put my feet up, my head back and think of a day on the beach in the caribean; 10 minutes is all it takes.

Monique Ibrahim, Ontario

I can't wait to end my workday and relax with my magic bag to unwind all my tense muscles and a good glass of wine and soft music !

Nancy Fennell, Ontario

My favourite way to unwind is to have a date night with my husband. I choose a meal that we can prepare together. This way we learn cooking techniques from each other on the barbeque or inside and we get a chance to chat about our week while sipping on a glass of wine. We light a few candles and put on some music and enjoy unwinding while we feast on a great new recipe. Afterward we take turns giving each other massages. It is wonderful.

Wayne Colborne, Nova Scotia

My favorite way to unwind is, along with my wife, to head to the lake with the canoe where I can enjoy a stress releasing paddle and then just float around peacefully on the lake relaxing while enjoying the tranquility of nature and listening to the loons calling and the frogs croaking. Energizing, relaxing, and refreshing !

Mary-ann Michalak, Quebec

Listening to a great cd of jazz or a great singer, be it a male of female diva, while sipping a glass of full "bodied" wine, not worrying about anything but relaxing.