Finding zen: tips for inner peace in times of overwhelm

Are you feeling a bit like it is all a bit much at the moment?

There’s so much going on in the world right now. Lots of heavy news. There is noise coming from every direction. This coupled with everyday demands on top of a busy lifestyle can easily send us into a state of overwhelm. Many of us are juggling our way through. Cultivating and protecting our inner calm at times like this is so important for our nervous system.

But how do I create inner calm?

Simply, you need to make it a PRIORITY if this is something important to you.

Here are a few tips for finding calmness and quiet within:

1. Start small and add changes slowly to stop further overwhelm.

2. Be present in the moment. No multitasking or distractions.

3. Find a relaxation technique that works for you. Yoga, meditation, walking, reading, and movement. Create space for it and do it daily. My favourite is to allow myself to simply gaze at moving shadows throughout the house as I go about my day. Taking time to breathe and be in the moment.

4. Don't hold on to feelings and thoughts that are negative and draining energy. Set an allocated “worry time”, say 10-15 minutes in your day where you can write down anything that is troubling you. Allowing you to get everything on paper that is concerning you and then trying to find solutions. I find that this allows me to free energy and space in my mind as well as gain perspective on my worries. When putting the thought into perspective, think: Does it serve you? Does it matter? Will it matter in 6 months, 1 year, and 5 years?

5. DISCONNECT. From the daily grind, social media, screens, etc. Allocating times to choose to watch the news etc. Reconnect with nature and the season. Embrace family, friends, and hobbies. Focus on what's important. The simple pleasures in life.

I hope these help a little.

Much love

Katie xx