i have vr lenses as well, i only turn it on when im not using a tripod. in able to get better stable shots without a tripod is to have a wider stance and try to keep your hands closer to your body as much as possible prevent less shakes.

as for using tripod i usually take off the vr option as this is really unnecessary as the tripod is already the one stabilising the whole camera and if you look closer maybe in photoshop, once the image is open it is quite sharper when you have vr off when using a tripod.

as for using timer, its a good idea. the less you handle the camera the better and sharper it would get "unless you have a tripod for a body hehehe". as for me i use a remote so its just one click away very useful and helps with battery life cos you dont have to wait for a timer.