What methods of dealing with stress have really helped you?

I have had over the last year I would say had major stressors, moving, changing country, selling my home, a death to name a few and I find that I have become quite run down and sickly. The reality of how stress can cause illness has really hit home for me.

I want to tackle my stress and do so by meditating for example. Clearly this is not enough. Some would say exercise, but I have been too unwell to try this although, I do walk more. Maybe laughter and spending time with fun friends helped you?

Has anyone here used effective methods that actually did reduce stress? I find that the events play over and over in my head. I can’t afford a therapist so unfortunately that would not be an answer in my case.

If you have any ideas or even better some methods where stress did affect your health and the used methods subsequently reduced your stress would be appreciated. Or even an inspirational site about stress management would be great.