I found carpentry to be a good revitalizer, building decks, fences and the like. Long hikes work. I cant turn off the thinking, but I can usually point it somewhere else.
Ditto. Bike rides, washing dishes, fixing stuff around the apartment are all nice escapes from the cerebral world.
Bike rides were amazing for me. I decided to bike to and from work (about 10 miles each way). I can't imagine not doing it now, its the best way to start and end my day.
Damn. 10 miles seems like a lot. Mostly flat? How long does it take you?
It probably takes him a bit more than 30 mins, and a bit less than 1 hr. Most people average 15mph or a little less biking. It obviously depends on how in shape you are, what kind of bike you ride, and how urban the ride is. I rode 5 miles every day over a summer and it was a pretty consistent 20 minutes. (even with some hills and stoplights.)
You would be surprised of the distances you can make in a bike without burning yourself.
Took me about 35 - 40 min each way
I run a mile when I need to unwind, it does absolute wonders (both physical and mental health!), and is a great way to refocus.
During the winter, like now, when I feel blocked I scan things into Delicious Library. I organize stuff digitally. It helps keep me away from the cold and it's mindless enough work that I can really focus on it.