The Importance of Calming Your Mind

Stress, as we all know, has a major negative influence on most every aspect of our lives.  It inhibits our mind from focusing on day-to-day tasks, it consumes us and prevents us from having enjoyable experiences, it can lead to arguments with loved ones, and it releases cortisol in our bodies which holds onto fat. 

It is imperative for everyday life to be able to think clearly, make good decisions, and have a feeling of inner peace and tranquility.  Impatience, worries, fears, and restless thoughts can obviously all have a negative impact on your frame of mind.  You must know how to calm your mind so that you can stay focused and have clear thoughts.  Here are a few things you can do to relax and get your head straight:

*Spend time doing something you love.  This can be anything that makes you feel good and whole, from shopping, to arts and crafts, to reading, or anything else that gives you a feeling of happiness and well-being.

*Focus on positive language.  I have mentioned this before, but it is important not to put yourself down using negative words and phrases.  Subconsciously your mind takes your words and internalizes them, so even when you are talking to yourself (which most of us do at some point or another) be sure to use positive language. 

*Exercise your body.  This is obviously what I’ve talked about for a long time, but exercise releases endorphins, which are a feel-good chemical in your brain.  Plus you’ll feel good about yourself for getting off your butt and being active. 

*Deep breathing.  Sit or lie down and put your hand on your belly.  Breathe in deep through your nose while focusing on your hand rising on your belly and then breathe out through your mouth, focusing on feeling the muscles in your stomach with your hand tighten as you push the last bit of air out.  Even 5 minutes of doing this can give you a calm feeling and relaxation. 

*Enjoy nature.  This isn’t something I’ve talked about on this blog so far, but it is something in which I truly believe.  Being in nature has a natural calming effect on your body and mind.  Take time to look up at the clouds or the stars, take a walk through the woods or along a river.  Just take it all in and enjoy it!

Another form of relaxation that I learned from a former coach of mine is called Progressive Muscle Relaxation.  I like to do this if I’m having a hard time falling asleep or clearing my mind.  To do this, you focus on slowly tensing and then relaxing each muscle group.  It helps you focus on your body, your muscles, and the physical sensations you’re feeling.  I generally start at my toes and work up all the way to my facial muscles, individually tensing each set of muscles for a slow count to 5 and then slowly relaxing them for about 10 seconds before moving on to the next set of muscles.  

Something else I plan on trying soon is yoga.  I’ve heard great things about it, and I’m interested to see what it can do for me.  If anyone has any suggestions, please let me know!