What a wonderful idea for a thread!

Ones that you listed that help me include the crying in the shower. It really can wash away the sadness. Even just simple stress.

Petting a loved pet.

Other things ...

Going for a walk. Starting out with determination in your step as if you have a destination that you have to arrive at NOW. Let the anger or sadness flow through you and your steps, let it seep out.

Sitting with a loved tree usually is paired with the walk. Sitting there and talking to it. Listening to the wind and the birds. I mean after all... is a tree going to be judgmental? o.O

Working out in the garden. Doing anything rhythmic with the hands help. Rhythmic and physical. I can't explain it, it's another one of those primal things that just come naturally.

Writing and drawing used to always help me too. If you have something you're passionate about... let those thoughts get out of your head. Let the paper take them from you. You don't have to show them to anyone, you can destroy it later or save them to examine them when you're feeling a bit better. They can help you figure out yourself.

I also know someone who showed a LOT of emotional improvement when they started a physical hobby that had no strings attached (no peer pressure, etc.) In this case it was a martial art. (It was as if he had gone on medication or someone waved a magic wand.)

Also, this may sound silly... but a cup of hot cocoa. It's been my little miracle ever since a bad break up years ago. NOTHING was consoling me... and then my friend and i decided to have some hot cocoa and make a few silly phone calls... the hot cocoa did the trick. I've repeated it when other sad times came up... it works. Not for REALLY bad stuff... then it only helps a *tiny* bit.