Stretching is one of the best (not to mention, free) ways to relieve tension. Ever seen how a cat stretches? It arches its back, holds its pose and then goes back to normal position... then stretches its legs one at a time. Then the cat looks thoroughly relaxed. Ahhh...our furry friends can teach us a thing or two when it comes to relaxing through stretching.
Remember to breathe during a stretch. Often people hold their breath when stretching. Wrong. Breathe in during the starting position and breathe out during the stretch. By breathing out during the stretch, your body releases the tension and your movement is more fluid, more relaxing.
Another useful stretch especially among office workers is the Neck Stretch. Tired after sitting behind the computer for hours? Try this. Sit at the edge of your office chair. Place your left hand on the side of your head (your left hand touching your right ear) and breathe in. Then move your neck and make it rest on your left shoulder, gently stretch your neck muscles and hold for 2 seconds. Return to starting position and stretch the other side. This time, use your right hand; let your neck rest on right shoulder. Do this 5-7 times and feel your neck muscles relax... feel the tension being relieved.
Source: Good Living
I feel a lot better after a good stretch at the gym like you say.
Thanks for the exercise tips. I could definitely use it, especially after sitting in front of the computer for such a long time.