Finding peace in the craziness of our world is a learned skill. We are born knowing that all is well – as we grow, life experiences teach us to fear, worry, and forget altogether how to reclaim peace.
With the current state of the world, it can be hard not to get lost in the chaos and magnify personal situations we are dealing with.
We are made to live in joy. Babies naturally seek joy and so they always find it. They never fear, worry or stress about things unless their adult care takers are doing so. We have the ability to reclaim that sense of peace and trust, regardless of the situations around us. It is a consciously learned, or rather re-learned skill. As we practice this skill, it comes more easily.
Peace begins within. How we feel within is reflected in our environment. We learn to match how we feel inside with what is going on around us. When we are going through a difficult situation, or our country is in a state of chaos, we feel that way within. Finding peace is learning how to be aware of what is going on around us without internalizing it. If we are dealing with a difficult situation and we immerse ourselves in that difficult experience, letting that situation decide our emotions, it eventually spills over into other parts of our lives too. Conversely, when we move ourselves into a state of calmness, trust or peace, regardless of the external state of affairs, we are able to view that situation with more clarity. This gives us space to find the correct answers or resources to aid us.
How we are able to move into a peaceful state of mind is different for each of us. Here are a few ideas. As you explore, you will find which tools are most effective for you:
Meditation: Meditation is an extremely powerful way to calm the mind and recalibrate your being. This is not always easy to do. Start by being in a quiet space where you feel safe and comfortable, and won’t be disturbed. Sit comfortably and allow your body to relax. Close your eyes and begin breathing deeply, allowing your body to relax further with each inhale and exhale. As you begin to feel relaxed, go within and focus on your breathing – the sound of your breath and the rise and fall of your chest. As thoughts arise, don’t linger on them and follow their path – just let them softly pass by. The more you do this, the easier it gets for you to no longer notice individual thoughts. Do this for 10 – to 15 minutes each day if you can. If that feels like too much, start small and notice how you feel after each experience.
Prayer: Reaching out in prayer may help you feel more connected. Whatever your belief system, use the tools that make you feel most connected and calm.
Music: Music can be a great way to raise your vibration. Listening to singing bowls or other instruments while breathing, can move you into a deeply relaxed state.
Rhythmic sound: Placing your hands over your heart and focusing intently on each heartbeat can slow the mind down. Listening to any repetitive sound with focus while taking deep breaths, allows you to detach from the external for a few minutes.
There are many more tools freely available that you can use to shift yourself into a state of calmness. It begins with calming your racing thoughts and allowing your natural state of peace to rise.
Seeking peace is an evolving journey – join me in my From Trauma to Triumph Community as we walk this path together.
Many Blessing
Santa