How do you.....

[ifm]

I always remember something an old fella said to me once, think about it:-

Nerves are the fear of losing.

If you don't fear losing, you won't be nervous

[Highstack]

Each to their own, what relaxes one will not work for another. For me, poker IS my relaxation and after the initial few hands have been dealt, I am fully alert (if I'm still in) and feeling good. Have a drink first if you like, but be careful not to get the taste for it, particul;arly if its a long tournament. Make sure that you are well rested too and that should help you relax.