Feeling out of Control? How to Create Your Own Calm
This global collective pause has given us an unprecedented opportunity to see our everyday lives through a completely new lens. In this new normal, the “stability” of living on autopilot is really no longer an option.
In fact, it’s like we all got thrown into one giant extended mindfulness retreat, being forced to pay deeper attention to all things, our personal lives as well as what’s going on with other people, communities and the world at large.
With a lot less routine, we are all seeing what we’ve been intentionally or unintentionally ignoring. And becoming more present is rapidly bringing both the brightest and darkest parts of our lives into focus.
How well you navigate this heightened awareness will ultimately depend on how committed you are to actively managing your mind and emotions.
Bottomline, it takes a different kind of “fitness” to be present and awake in your life.
Without the right tools in your selfcare kit, it can be super challenging.
Difficulty concentrating, lethargy, poor sleeping, food cravings, overeating are likely signs that there are emotions and insights bubbling up to the surface that need your attention.
And by the way, this is exactly why just another deprivation diet or wellness gimmick promises to fall short of your well intentioned desire to “feel more in control” of your life right especially now.
During such an unprecedented time, stress on the body and mind is inevitable.
But fortunately, there are enormous restorative and healing powers in MEDITATING:
Here are some tips that will help you if you’re just starting out or maybe you’re looking to recharge your practice.
- Consciously commit to yourself that you will try it for at least 1 month.
- Find Your Flavor of Meditation – There are endless options to choose from in style, length and theme. I recommend checking out Headspace.com, Insighttimer.com or Sattva.life.
- Do first thing in the Morning. Set a reminder for when you wake up and put a note that says “meditate” somewhere where you’ll see it.
- Designate a dedicated place in your home where you can sit comfortably and be free of distractions.
- The goal of meditation is not clearing your mind. The benefits come from practicing focusing and refocusing your attention over and over again whenever your mind wanders.
- Be patient and gentle with yourself, develop a loving attitude and don’t worry about doing it wrong. Just be happy that you’re doing it.
