I just bought and installed my first punching bag at home. I thought it would be good for releasing stress. Where do I begin? Is there a proper technique to using a punching bag?

Almost any sporting goods stores near you should carry standard protective gloves. I will send you a few links so that you can compare pricing.

http://www.karatesupply.com/Bag-Gloves_c_139.html

http://store.titleboxing.com/gloves-bag-gloves.html

http://www.boxfituk.com/boxing-gloves/boxing-bag-gloves-mitts/cat_24.html

I found you a great website full of useful tips for beginners. It will teach you proper techniques and training programs.

http://www.rossboxing.com/

Yes. There is a great article on "how to build your own punching bag for cheap" that I am going to send you, good luck!

http://www.howtodothings.com/sports-recreation/how-to-build-your-own-punching-bag-for-cheap

A basement would be an ideal place for mounting a punching bag. All you need to install you punching bag are some brackets, some which come with proper installation instructions. I am sending you a link to a site that sells the right brackets for your desired weight of punching bag along with mounting instructions.

http://my.shop.ssgecom.com/site/esports/product/1185904

I would also recommend reading this article with tips on where and how to mount a heavy punching bag.

http://www.howtodothings.com/sports-recreation/how-to-install-a-heavy-punching-bag

Punching bags are traditionally filled with sand, water or grains; however you can use around the house items if you prefer. Some materials that can be a good substitute are rolled up garbage bags (packed tightly), ripped clothes/sheets/rags, cotton, rice, or a combination of these items. What you fill your bag with depends on how heavy and hard you want your punching bag to be.

Filling your punching bag doesn't have to be a daunting task. I found you a great 5 step how to guide that will explain how to fill your bag.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/187354-how-to-fill-a-punching-bag/