I don't use these kinds of tools, either. Showers are good - thinking about my plot, my characters in the shower is usually helpful. I'll also put on music or wear earplugs to create atmospheres conducive to thought. Blocking out other sounds and creating my own little space lets me lose myself in the story.

I always say I have to fall in love with my characters. When that's not happening, I search for pictures of people who I think match visions of my character as I've created them in my head, sort of as a visual touchstone. If I'm really having trouble I'll do "make me love you" stream of consciousness writing about that character, just anything that pops into my head.

All unconventional, but I think each writer has to develop their own unique systems of what works for them. General guidelines may be a good start, but the ways in which you bring your writing to life are uniquely yours.