Wellbeing

25 Ways to find Inner Calm

Some people appear to have been born with it while others struggle to find it. Inner Calm is a sort after commodity these days. With our lives so much more stressful and busy than before, the quest for peace, a safe haven of quiet is much needed.

But how do you achieve it if you don’t already have it? Taking things step-by-step, day-by-day, we’re here to help you find your corner of calm.

  1. Don’t put things off – Whether it’s personal or professional, do the hardest thing first – and when you do, make sure you’ve completely resolved any underlying issues.
  2. Become unflappable – Anger or hostility is almost always someone else’s problem, so decide who you want to be in all circumstances and deliver an unflappable response.
  3. Be aware of feelings – Don’t shy away from how you’re feeling simply because it’s uncomfortable or difficult. Spend time addressing what these feeling are and what they mean.
  4. Pay attention to your thoughts – Allow yourself time to observe any thoughts that come into your head. Without judgement, pay attention to and accept them for what they are.
  5. Assume nothing – One of the biggest lessons in life is to assume nothing. Make sure you ask the right questions so you’re as informed as possible.
  6. Be real – With heart and conviction, always be yourself. Avoid editing the truth and be true to who you are.
  7. Know yourself – Take the time to understand who you are – your values, goals, joys and passions.
  8. Live in the moment – Instead of worrying about the past or panicking about the future, really enjoy the NOW. It’s all we have — this moment in time. When we live in the present, the concerns of the past and future can’t worry us.
  9. Prioritise your peace – Fill your life with great relationships and experiences, making time for friends and family and doing things that make you happy instead of focussing on your to-do list.
  10. Don’t pander to technology – Don’t be a slave to technology and resist the urge to answer the ping of text, social media alert or call straight away. Take your time and answer on your own terms.
  11. Find a quiet space – First thing in the morning or last thing at night, find somewhere to sit quietly or lay down. Bring your attention to the physical act of breathing – it will help you become aware of your body and its surroundings and aids your capacity to relax.
  12. Love the body you’re in – The more we like ourselves, the greater our peace of mind. We accept ourselves more and feel at ease in the world, no matter what situation we find ourselves in. We experience less insecurity and as a result, our inner calm is heightened.
  13. Resistance is futile – Stop struggling or fighting a particular situation and let go of any negative energy or people.
  14. De-clutter – Have regular clear-outs. Clutter can add to feelings of tension and a clean, clear home allows a clearer, more peaceful mind.
  15. Get enough sleep – When we’re tired and grumpy, nothing goes smoothly. Get eight hours of sleep per night and you will have much more inner calm.
  16. Be careful of what you drink – Some things we drink can affect our minds. Coffee, tea and some soft drinks have caffeine. Caffeine affects each person differently. Evaluate how it affects you. If it makes you jumpy or irritable, then either reduce your consumption or eliminate it altogether so you can create more inner calm.
  17. Slow down – Your emotions work backwards too. If you slow down while walking, moving your body or talking you can often start to feel less stressed (compared to if you move/talk fast).
  18. Mindful colouring  – Whether you’re colouring or doodling, this simple act focuses the mind on the here and now, allowing you to be in the present and finding a sense of inner calm positivity.
  19. Stretching and yoga – Adding in yoga practice to your weekly routine can make a huge difference on how you feel physically and emotionally, allowing you to have a quiet mind and an open heart.
  20. Bring nature into your home – Nature allows us to be more mindful of our surroundings and become more grounded, bring plants and flowers into your home to brighten your heart and mind.
  21. Go for a walk – Instead of working through your lunch break, go for a walk. Take your mind off your days stresses, if only for an hour, and return to work refreshed and ready to face the rest of your day with a clear mind.
  22. Treat yourself – Whether it’s that new top you were after, hair cut or massage, treat yourself to something special as often as possible. Not only will you feel accomplished when buying or receiving your treat, but you’ll also feel good inside and out too.
  23. Listen to music – It doesn’t matter what type of music you’re into, listen to whatever music makes you feel relaxed. Music is food for the soul and a great way to find inner peace.
  24. Food for energy – Ensure your meals and snacks are well-balanced with high fibre, low sugar, low starch and plenty of healthy, natural fats and protein every time you eat.
  25. Compliment others – Giving and receiving compliments is one of the simplest ways of achieving inner peace, serenity and a sense of self. So next time you see someone with great hair, shoes or clothes – let them know.


Caro Dooling

Caro Dooling

Writer and expert


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