We spend a lot of time trying to fit calm into our lives. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, journaling, or just being extra nice to each other, we’re trying to find a way to be more peaceful. But is it possible to live more peacefully without ever leaving the comfort of your couch? Living an intentionally relaxed life is possible. It sounds scary and challenging, but once you dig into the right practices, there are many ways to integrate more calm into your life.
Here are four ways to integrate more calm into your life:
Mindfulness:
Being mindful is a great way to feel better and have a more profound experience of life. Many of us do not practice what we preach; we can get caught up in the stresses of life and miss out on opportunities because we are not mindful — being mindful means paying attention to the present moment without judgment. Not everything worth pursuing is easy or pleasant. But if you push through the hard times with good motivation — like getting out of bed in the morning — your life will seem a lot more manageable.
Group Support:
When we feel stressed, our hearts race, and our muscles tense, one way to ease tension and calm your nerves is to group together with others. Research shows that when we feel supported by a social group, we are less likely to experience negative emotions such as anxiety or depression.
Walk:
Managing stress starts with being aware of all the triggers that can quickly get the wheels of your mind turning. When these triggers are present, it’s easier to choose a more mindful way to respond. Start by paying attention while you are walking to the sounds around you — the dog walking by you can help remind you to breathe.
Reduce Screen Time:
It’s easy to get distracted when your phone is on the table or in your pocket. Add a few minutes every day to put down the phone, and it will pay off. Studies show screen time does not help us learn well and adapt, but it can distract us from more important things. If your phone is always on and you have never set aside time for it, consider putting it in a place where you can’t reach it easily — perhaps a cabinet in your kitchen. This is a simple trick to implementing focus in your life.
