A new year brings new opportunities to be a better, brighter version of yourself.
And for many, that means dedicating the year to living a healthier, happier life, including finding peace of mind. Not only is this an admirable goal, but introspection and inner peace can bring about a better life.
Here are five easy things you can do to find some peace of mind this year.
1. Take Time For You
It can feel as though there’s never enough time in the day. Between work, commuting, taking care of family, and trying to squeeze in a quick workout, the average schedule doesn’t leave much time for the hobbies that make you happy.
That’s why you should resolve to spend more time on yourself this year.
Dedicate more time to activities that give you joy and put you in a peaceful state of mind.
Before you know it you’ll be happier, more productive, and feel more fulfilled.
2. Learn to Meditate
Meditation does indeed have a learning curve. At first, it’ll be tough to quiet the mind. That’s perfectly fine! Follow your thoughts and focus on your breathing.
Post-meditation, you’ll feel more relaxed and even more aware of your surroundings. Studies show that meditation can even permanently change your brain for the better.
Meditation is a wonderful option for spiritual individuals, as well. If you’re someone who likes to keep your peace through spirituality, look into the rich history of mala beads.
According to japamalabeads.com, eastern religions have used these sacred prayer beads to feel closer to themselves, the world, and their gods.
3. Take Care of Your Mental Health
Most people resolve to spend the new year losing weight or eating healthier. Those are good goals, to be sure. But make sure you’re not so focused on your body that you forget about your mind.
But your mental health is every bit as important as your physical health. Still, few seek treatment.
An estimated 18.5% of the adult population in the United States have a mental health condition.
Let this year be the year where you take care of yourself as a whole — physically, spiritually, and mentally.
4. Unplug
Technology has done a lot to improve our quality of life over the years. But that convenience comes with a cost.
Too much screen time can affect everything from your vision to your attention spans.
Make an effort to spend at least a few hours each week screen-free. Set your phone to airplane mode and go for a walk or read your favorite book.
You’ll be shocked at how peaceful some time away from your favorite tech can be.
5. Follow “What If?” Statements
Most of us have these thoughts from time to time. For some, they can cause avoidance or unhappiness.
Instead of letting worry make you sick, follow the rabbit trail, so to speak.
What if you don’t get that job? You can keep applying for other positions you’re equally qualified for. You’re bound to find something.
What if your relationship falls apart? It would hurt, to be sure. Yet that wouldn’t erase the great memories you shared.
The trick is to follow these thoughts to their logical conclusions and flip them.
What if you do get the job? Or what if you’re with your true love, after all?
How we frame our thought patterns can have a tremendous impact on our overall mental health — for better or worse.
Find Peace of Mind With These Tips
By reading this article, you’re well on your way to finding the peace of mind you’ve always dreamed of. Let this be your year. Take control of your life and live in the peace you’ve always wanted.
Are you thinking of talking to a counselor? Check out our guide on finding a legitimate hypnotherapist.