Stress relief

[NerfedFalcon]

I need some help with stress relief that isn't video games, since it's video games that made me stressed in the first place.

So I made a New Year's resolution to beat Dark Souls, since I've been meaning to for ages and I've got friends who know it back to front. Only then I lost four soft humanity (which at Parish is a lot), and proceeded to do worse and worse after each respawn because of the frustration that came about from that, and my inability to backstab anything because the game won't accept anything less than perfection in that regard.

Now I'm stressed out. And I probably will be again several times before I beat that game. So, I'd like some advice on how to get rid of Dark Souls-related stress, and possibly stress in general.

 

[Redlin5_v1legacy]

Animals such as dogs or cats really help out if you are so inclined. I know for me a good hour or two with some pets can really cut through the weight on my shoulders.

[sub]Video games too but that's your source of stress it seems.[/sub]

 

[Lil devils x_v1legacy]

Taking walks by the lake at night under the moonlight seems to do it for me. Even just going and sitting outside after dark and watching the stars is great stress relief as well. Now if what you are experiencing is extreme frustration rather than just stress, and need an actual outlet, getting a heavy bag and beating the crap out of it helps too. If you do not have access to a heavy bag, or punching bag or have the $ to get one ( even off craigslist they are fairly inexpensive) you can make one and beat the crap out of it as well until you wear yourself out. It is great for a frustration relief outlet.
DIY Punching bag Ideas:
http://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-Punching-Bag/

 

[Zhukov]

Exercise. Weights, jogging, martial arts, whatever you prefer.

Hot baths. Or so I'm told.

Chocolate. Probably not something you want to get in the habit of, but it does work.

 

[Barbas]

Drawing, since that hasn't been suggested yet. Get some really peaceful, atmospheric music, then just sit down with a warm cup of whatever your favourite beverage is and just go to town on that canvas. Just don't make it too warm, though, in case you spill it on your crotch and angrily kick the table over.

 

[happyninja42]

List of things that help me destress:

1. Pets
2. Excercise
3. Masturbation
4. Masturbation
5. Hot shower
6. Listening to energetic music that lightens my mood. Or soothing music that mellows me out (The Fountain soundtrack is my personal favorite on this front)
7. Masturbation
8. Stargazing
9. Mastur---ah you get the idea
10. Playing a video game that doesn't stress me out, and is basically just fun. Like Spiderman 2, and just spending my time webswinging around New York for fun. (Seriously that's just too much damn fun to just swing around town)

 

[Darth Rosenberg]

I need some help with stress relief that isn't video games, since it's video games that made me stressed in the first place.

So I made a New Year's resolution to beat Dark Souls, since I've been meaning to for ages and I've got friends who know it back to front. Only then I lost four soft humanity (which at Parish is a lot), and proceeded to do worse and worse after each respawn because of the frustration that came about from that, and my inability to backstab anything because the game won't accept anything less than perfection in that regard.

Backstabs trigger when the thumbstick/move input is in neutral, btw - lots of people and newcomers to DS keep failing at backstabs because they feel all they need is just to press the button at the enemy's back. Strafe around, let go of the stick, then your backstab percentages should shoot through the roof.

...and you'll be able to cheat your way through most of DS 'cause in that game no one's figured out how to just turn with the cowardly player. ;-) That Critical Miss on DS backstabs is decidedly accurate.

As for stress relief that isn't just getting a bit better at a game that isn't actually hard at all? Erm, masturbation's apparently popular, but that's not exactly a methodology of stress release I go for. A brief stint of yoga's always good, given it also involves breath control.

Going for a run's also a good'un.

 

[Grouchy Imp_v1legacy]

Read a book, cook a good meal, have a hot shower, go for a walk in the countryside, or if all else fails just get good and drunk.

Also instrumental music is a great accompaniment to all of the above.

 

[Cycloptomese]

Get yourself one of those nifty adult coloring books. All thoughts will quickly leave your mind leaving only one... Staying between the lines. You will become the zen master.

 

[Johnny Novgorod]

This helps me mellow down: http://www.rainymood.com/

 

[freaper]

I know it's not exactly what you're asking for, but when I used to play COD, I'd get frustrated, too. Changing to ("easier") singleplayer games, with few RNG elements usually does the trick for me, i.e. management games, strategy games, etc. As long as I can be in control of the situation I don't get stressed out.

 

[sky14kemea]

Get yourself one of those nifty adult coloring books. All thoughts will quickly leave your mind leaving only one... Staying between the lines. You will become the zen master.

In a cruel twist, I usually get mad when my shaky hands can't stay in the lines.

OT: Beat the shit out of a pillow.

Or alternatively, sing like no one is listening. Anything else I can think of has already been said.

 

[Nachtwens]

What I do to relief stress is meditation. Just sit in a quiet place, close your eyes and try to focus on your breathing.

 

[DefunctTheory]

So, I'd like some advice on how to get rid of Dark Souls-related stress, and possibly stress in general.

If that's not your speed...

I'll read sometimes if stressed out. I'll also switch to a simpler, 'low challenge' video game if another one frustrates me. Going for a walk is also a good way to cool off, though that may be difficult during this particular season.

 

[Vicarious Reality]

Listening to rain always pleasures me greatly