Idea #15: Read a great book.

I stole this idea from NPR, which recommends Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, The Talented Mr. Ripley, and A Room with a View. I recommend anything about a woman having a midlife crisis and traveling the world, which may sound limiting but has been the theme of the last few books I've read, including Eat Pray Love, Without Reservations, and Tales of a Female Nomad.

What is it about a woman throwing her entire life out the window and starting over abroad, where dozens of attractive men are waiting to seduce her and even more cafes are awaiting her longing gaze. How can you not imagine yourself there?

Idea #11: Stay up til 1am watching the Olympics.

Because even though you'll need two lattes just to make it through the next day, it's totally worth it.

Idea #9: Get into legs up the wall pose, immediately.

This position is somewhat magical. It can transform a cranky, tired, achy person into a lovely and relaxed one. In that way, it is not unlike two glasses of wine, although it lacks the accompanying health concerns. While it can be done with little fanfare, a few accoutrements can make it extra special.

The Basic: Identify a flat wall. It can be in your bedroom, kitchen, office, or even office bathroom, which is where I usually find myself so as to avoid strange stares from passersby who may not be familiar with yoga. Sit down next to it and scootch your bum over so it's right next to the wall. Then, lay back and stick your legs up. Exhale.

Intermediate: Repeat the Basic, but find an eye pillow or something that can serve as an eye pillow, such as a shirt sleeve. Cover up those peepers for extra-relaxation.

Olympic level: Repeat the above levels, but bring along a pillow or other type of support. Stick it under your lower back, as shown in the picture. You have now reached the height of bliss. Good luck with the transition back to reality.

Idea #8: Take a bath.

There's nothing quite like climbing into steaming hot water, especially after a day in high heels or sitting at a desk. Your muscles relax and your mind can wander to the soppy magazine in front of you. (Yes, I am recommending reading while bathing, but only if the magazine is sufficiently mindless.) For extra comfort, get yourself a bath pillow and some bath bombs.

My massage therapist recently had an even better suggestion: Have your boyfriend/husband/partner serve as cabana boy for the night. He can most likely be taught to enjoy this role (although there will be some variation in how well the idea goes over). It involves running the bath to the temperature of your liking, lighting candles, and, when you're ready, handing you a well-fluffed towel. Then you can show your appreciation for his services.