Thoughtful Ways to Find Inner Peace
By Sandy Schroeder
In a stressful world that often disturbs our inner peace, we all need ways to stay centered. When the day has been too long and the problems too many, it's time to find calmness. Do whatever it takes to right the ship and make life good again.
Cleveland Clinic has some suggestions to find the right answers.
Focus attention on things that you can control - When you allow yourself to absorb anger from others or put up with chaos, you sacrifice your peace of mind and weaken your health. Take steps to eliminate stressful triggers and create new conditions that are comfortable.
Spend time in nature - Get outdoors every day and find ways to enjoy nature's gifts. Walk to the park, sit by the water, bike around town. Work in your garden or play with your kids and pets. Sunshine and fresh air really can provide the ingredients that lighten the spirit and relax the mind.
Be honest with yourself - You know what pleases you most and works to calm your thoughts. Enjoy good music, see close friends and spend time with your family. Spend time with the things that help to refuel the spirit and reinforce confidence.
Stay active and exercise every day - Use morning runs or brisk walks to set the pace for the whole day. Take up a new sport, or revive an old one. Do what you love most. Bike, dance, run or take nature walks. Encourage your whole family to join you.
Eat healthy - Make sure you have the energy to work, play and enjoy life. When you are worn down, it is all too easy to just order a pizza or pick up burgers. Visit your farmers market and pick your favorite fruits and vegetables. Add poultry, fish and lean meats. Then involve the whole family in cooking and baking.
Reach out to help others - I always come away with a new view of life when I take the time to help others in my neighborhood or community. Visit your library, hospitals and local animal shelters and lend a hand..
Take a stand - Speak up for yourself and ask for the things that you need to make life whole. Reach out for the positive things in life and say no to the negatives. When you allow chaotic situations and toxic people to fill your day, peace has little chance of surviving.
Meditate daily - Find times in the morning or the evening to sit quietly and let your thoughts flow unchecked, unjudged. Later your mind will be clear and life will be calmer. Just giving your mind some peace and quiet can make a difference.
Real peace is worth the effort. Do whatever it takes to make it a mainstay in your life and enjoy the results. Your work will be more productive and your efforts more lasting.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Seal Beach, Calif.