13 Ways to Calm Your Mind
Seventy-two percent of adults said they would rather live a calm life than an exciting life.
Being calm allows you to think clearly and make excellent decisions. Your mind is less likely to be distracted by stress or anxiety when you’re calm, so it can focus on what matters most.
If you are wondering how to calm your mind, this short and simple guide is for you.
Table of Contents
1. Practice Deep Breathing
Deep breathing relaxes your body by slowing down your heart rate and reducing muscle tension.
It also helps you focus on the present moment instead of worrying about what might happen in the future. You can practice deep breathing by lying down or sitting up straight.
Place one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest to feel your lungs inflate and deflate as you breathe in and out.
2. Engage in Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a way of training your mind to focus on the present moment.
By doing so, you can learn to ignore thoughts that are unrelated to what’s happening in the here and now. You can practice mindfulness meditation by focusing on one thing and purposefully ignoring all other distractions.
For example, try meditating while sitting still for 10 minutes every day.
3. Spend Time in Nature
One of the best ways to relax and reduce stress is by spending time in nature.
Nature lowers blood pressure, decreases anxiety, and promotes better sleep. All things that can help you feel less stressed.
You can start by taking a long walk on your lunch break or going for a hike on the weekend.
4. Practice Yoga
Yoga promotes physical activity and flexibility while also providing mental clarity and focus.
The best part is that you can do yoga anywhere, anytime. All you need is a mat and some free time.
If you’re new to yoga, try taking a class at your local gym or studio. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of free online videos that teach basic poses.
5. Write in a Journal
Writing in a journal can be very therapeutic, especially if you have something on your mind.
It’s also a great way to organize your thoughts and track your progress. If you’re not used to journaling, start by writing about one thing that happened during the day.
Each day, write a few more things until you feel comfortable with this process and can write freely.
6. Listen to Calming Music
Calming music can be a great way to relax and reduce stress.
Try listening to classical music. Consider creating a relaxation playlist with soothing tunes from your favorite artists.
You can do this when you get home from work, before bed, or whenever you need a break.
7. Disconnect From Technology
Technology can be a tremendous source of stress, especially if you’re constantly checking your phone.
Try turning off your phone and computer when they’re not in use. Get up from your desk every hour and walk around the office for a few minutes to get some fresh air and release some tension.
To calm down, try to take a break from technology at least once a day.
8. Engage in Creative Activities
Creative activities can be a great way to calm the mind.
Try writing in a journal, making art or crafts, or playing music. If you don’t have any creative hobbies, try learning how to draw, or take a class on something you’ve always wanted to learn.
Engaging in creative activities will help you deal with stress. They can also be a good outlet for your emotions.
9. Practice Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Progressive muscle relaxation is a technique that involves tensing and relaxing different muscles.
You can do it sitting or lying down with your eyes closed. Start by tensing the muscles in your toes for about five seconds.
Then relax them completely for another five seconds before moving on to the next group of muscles.
10. Read a Book
Reading can help you switch off from your worries and lose yourself in another world. It’s also a great way to learn new things.
Try reading a book that’s completely different from your usual genre, or one that you’re not sure whether you’ll like.
It’s a good way to open yourself up to new experiences and ideas. If you don’t have time for a book, try listening to an audiobook instead.
11. Engage in Gentle Exercise
Gentle exercise can help to calm your mind and body.
Try yoga, tai chi, or ballet-style stretching. If you don’t have time for a class, try doing some gentle exercise at home instead.
Even just five minutes of gentle exercise can help to improve your mood and calm your mind.
12. Practice Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a way of using scents to help relax your mind and body.
Try burning a candle or an essential oil diffuser at home. You can also try a few drops of essential oil on your hands or wrists and inhale the scent.
The smell can help to soothe your senses, calm your mind and body, and promote relaxation.
13. Repeat a Mantra
Mantras are words or phrases that you repeat to yourself.
This is a powerful technique because it helps you to focus your mind positively. You can choose any word or phrase that resonates with you, such as “I am calm” or “Everything is okay.”
Repeat your mantra as many times as you like, either out loud or in your head.
Calm Your Mind: Make Emotional Well-Being a Priority in Your Life
When you calm your mind, you feel focused and productive. You will also feel less stressed and anxious, which will help you enjoy life more fully.
It doesn’t take long to calm your mind. Just a few minutes each day can make all the difference in how you feel about yourself and the world around you.
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