5 Ways to ‘Find Your Center’
There are just not enough hours in a day! I can’t tell you guys how many times I have said that to myself thinking that I had too much going on and not enough time to do them. A never ending to do list, house that needs cleaned, clothes that need washed, and what happened to my social life? It was starting to get out of control.I decided that Rome wasn’t built in a day and my life will still go on if there are dishes left in the sink at night or my to-do list wasn’t completely done at the end of the day. What was most important to me what that I didn’t go crazy in the process. I began to explore different ways to relax and be a peace in this ‘go go go’ world that we live in. Even for just 20-30 mins, find some ‘me’ time to unwind and let the pressures and stresses of the day roll off. It’s important (for my sanity at least) to not let the stresses of yesterday ruin your tomorrows. Here are a few ways to focus, be at peace, and find your ‘center’ in a world full of chaos.
Meditation
To many, this may be sitting Indian style and just breathing to release the stresses of the day. My meditation is a little different. I find a comfortable position (most of the time with my back on the floor while my legs are on the wall. Great for blood circulation) put on some spiritual music and spend the next 10 minutes or so thanking God for the day and what he’s done in my life. Not really praying because I’m not speaking but just thinking of the good things.
Gratitude Journal
A journal is a great way to just jot down 3-5 things that you are grateful for that day. We have a tendency to be so hard on ourselves so to show appreciation for you is a great self confidence booster. Here are few of my Faves:Erin Condren - Grateful & ThankfulThe One Minute Gratitude JournalGratitude Journal
Star Gazing
Weird I know. But when was the last time you went outside, look at the stars and just wondered what could be up there? I use to do it as a kid all the time and as I got older and responsibilities mounted, I found myself not appreciating the little things in life. Do it once as an adult and I promise, you’ll be hooked to do it more often
Tea and A Good Book
Nothing makes me happier than cozying up in a good chair with a book and some tea (or hot chocolate). Books have a way of taking us out of our current reality, even for just a few minutes, and allowing us to live or create this movie in our heads. Sometimes, I get lost in a good book and an hour has gone by before I realize it. Whether it is mystery, romance, or sci-fi, find something that you’re interested in reading and get started, if you’re unsure where to look, here are some great book lists:B&N Top 100 Best SellersReal Simple 30 Must Read BooksPowell's 25 Books to read before you die
Cuddling
Yes, finding your ‘center’ can involve other people. Sometimes you and your spouse or children just need some cuddling time, no phones or tv, just you and them. It makes you appreciate what you have regardless of how bad they may get on your nerves the other 23 hours!Whatever method you do, make sure it’s done on a daily basis. Even if you don’t have time to commit 30 mins, start out with 5 or 10 and slowly work your way up to where you think you need to be. To help yourself is like the caution they say on every flight, ‘before you help someone else with their mask, make sure to put yours on first’. Take some time to make sure ‘me’ is balanced and centered before you start helping other people.What are some other ways you can help find your ‘me’ time each day?