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.

Bernice Stewart, Manitoba

To go to a scenic valley or pasture with horses and find spot to sit under a tree with a notebook and pen so in case I feel inspired to write down my thoughts, feelings, or ideas. Sometimes I don't want to write anything, instead I just take in the view - notice every little thing in the peace and quiet and fresh air and just think, think, think.

Leslee Nicholson, Nova Scotia

Spend an hour in a hot tub with a good book! Afterwards, have a long, refreshing, cool shower. Dress in a soft housecoat and make a cup of rich hot chocolate. Perfect!

Kim Watson, Ontario

I unwind in a number of ways, though I have found giving & receiving healing touch treatments one of the best ways. Frequently, I use a magic bag on my tense shoulders while doing a chakra connection; both help ease and loosen. Energy work really works!

Nidia Gago, Manitoba

My favorite way to unwind is to soak my feet in some semi-hot water treated with tea tree oil and Epson salts while sitting in front of the TV and watching a good movie.

Nadeau Susan, Ontario

I put my magic Bag around my neck, brew a cup of Chai tea and watch an old black and white favourite and float away into the world of by gone days.

Heidi McInnis, Manitoba

We live about ten minutes away from a lovely urban forest. My favorite way to unwind is to go walking along the many trails in that forest. It is not uncommon to see deer grazing, and a variety of other animals enjoying the forest during its seasonal changes with me!

Heather Ravlich, Alberta

A warm bath with Epsom salts and some essential oils like lavender or rose, bergomot and ylang ylang; then getting into bed with a good book. Heaven! A bowl of popcorn sometimes adds to the delight! PS I do have a magic bag!

Robin Schooley, British Columbia

The best way to take the stress out of my life is to leave the housework, the yardwork and all the rest of the work behind and get into nature with my son and husband. Nothing is more restorative than a walk through the woods, a picnic at a lake, an oceanside walk or a drive in the country. The only sound: water, birds, a breeze, squirrels. The stress just falls away and you appreciate the things that really matter.

Diane Beland, Ontario

A bottle of white wine and a good movie... Thelma and Louise, Fatal Attraction, Legaly Blond. And our pets around me and my fiance away from the TV area.

Dexter Ang, Ontario

A weekend getaway to a bed and breakfast or opening up a bottle of wine with an intimate candle lit dinner at home.