It's difficult to trade options without trading volatility. My strategy is to be vega neutral - unless I have a strong opinion on the future. Mark
Buying longer term calls or call spreads on the vix is a great hedging strategy for your porfolio imo. Slowly start buying when it gets in the low twenties and keep buying if and when it gets in the teens. Has worked so far this year. If and when we have a positive gdp and are gaining jobs, and the market is back to "normal", adjust the number that you start buying at down 5-10.