Operating in a semi-windy environment (av15-35kts) where every landing is crosswind, I have found that using pedal to slow the rotor in a crosswind is not at all harmfull if you use the same pedal as the wind direction. ie, if the wind is from the right, put in right pedal and vice versa for left. This reduces the wind effect on the taill rotor and has no detrimental effect on bearings etc. as the tail rotor is completely unloaded. Into wind I guess you just have to let it slow down when it's ready. Don't know, forgotten how to do it