Being calm isn’t always easy, especially when chaos erupts around you. You have to cultivate a practice of being calm—and consistency is the key here. More important than the length of time that you practice is doing it consistently every day. Three minutes every day will bring you the results you want quicker than one hour of practice once a week. Here are eight tips to help you stay calm:
1. Make a decision to create calm in your life—even when life gets chaotic. This decision is powerful in helping you maintain your daily practice. Know that this is possible to achieve, even if it seems impossible when you start. Keep going and the results will come. Don’t give up. If you forget one day, start again the next day.
2. Breathe consciously as often as you remember. Take three deep breaths when you get up, in the shower, waiting for your coffee, driving in traffic, sitting at your desk…whenever you remember throughout your day.
3. Take time for yourself—every day. To stay sane, you must take at least a few minutes, (15 - 30 minutes or more is better) to be with yourself. Go outside, take a walk, look at the sky. Allow the stress of the day to slip off your shoulders and savor some moments of joy.
4. Process your emotions. If you are upset about something, or with someone, give yourself time to recognize the emotions and allow them. It’s important not to stuff emotions, and also not to start yelling at someone who has hurt you either.
5. Practice gratitude. When life feels like a struggle, it’s easy to get caught up in looking at everything that is wrong. Write down 5 things every day you are grateful for—simple things like breathing, walking down the street, enjoying the fresh morning air, your morning coffee.
