The modern world is a stressful place, and sometimes we need to blow off a little steam after a tough day. Here are 10 things you can do once you get in from work, or when the kids are at school, to help you unwind, relax, and vent.

1. Video Games

Playing a video game can be a great way of blowing of steam. Take out your frustrations on your fictional enemies and other players. Video gaming is a fun, and safe, way of releasing anger and reducing your own stress.

2. Online Games

MMO's, or massively multiplayer online games, are not just games. They are alternate realities. You can build a life in these games. Get to know other players, and completely lose yourself. This makes online gaming a brilliant way to blow off steam. Leave your troubles, and problems, in the real world, and go live in your online world for a while. Literally millions of people inhabit these worlds, and there is even talk of MMO gaming becoming an eSport in the future, so don't be fooled into thinking it's just for geeks. MMO is huge.

3. Read

Reading is very much the old-school version of getting lost in another world. But, it's still effective. Picking up a good book, and spending an hour or two in someone else's shoes, is a brilliant way to forget your problems. It might even help you spot solutions and put things into perspective.

4. Exercise

Exercise is one of the healthiest ways to blow off steam. Release some energy, let out your stress, and let any anger or pressure from the day power you on. Set yourself goals and targets, and celebrate your achievements. This is the most productive way to blow off steam, make your stress work for you, and get a great, mood boosting Adrenalin rush while you are at it.

5. Cook

Cooking takes a lot of concentration and effort. This makes it another productive way to let off steam. If you've had a tough day, reward yourself for making it through by cooking your favorite meal. If you can, get people round to share it with you.