With everything going on in the world right now, it’s always nice when I’m able to take a few minutes out of the day to burn my incense, close my eyes and meditate. Sure, it doesn’t erase most issues completely, but it does help me deal with them.
I wasn’t always into meditation, as I previously found it quite difficult to sit in silence and just be. Instead, I found my calm in writing, going on hikes, and reading books just to name a few things. As much as I love mediation now, I still find tranquility in the aforementioned activities.
The next time you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or simply experiencing a scattered brain, try one of these activities to help you practice mindfulness and bring you back to the present moment.
Read a book
Set aside at least 45 minutes to allow yourself to immerse in a really good book. This is a perfect opportunity for you to learn something new and remain in the present moment.
Write in your journal
If you’re experiencing a scattered brain, this is a must for you. Not only can it help you get more organized, but it can alsoserve as a great way to hold you accountable for completing your goals and as a daily check-in with your feelings.
Also, jotting down what your grateful for can be an immediate mood enhancer.
Take an electronics break
For all of us who are attached to our electronic devices, step away from your phone, computer, tablet or tv even if it’s just for a couple of minutes to give your brain a much-needed refresher.
Go for a walk
Take a walk around your neighborhood! Leave our headphones at home and enjoy the sounds and sights around you
Take a hike
So if going for a walk around our neighborhood isn’t appealing to you, exploring different hiking trails around your area can be just as beneficial.
Work out
Whether you’re lifting weights, running, or going to a spin or barre class, sometimes, a good sweat session is all you need to help melt away your stress, increase your focus and improve your health. Win-win.
Clean your house
A clean house can really help withcreating a calm mind. Get rid of things you no longer need or use and focus on creating a more organized and clean space.
Inhale essential oils
Essential oils such as lavender or peppermint have many benefits including enhancing your mood and concentration. Place a few drops into your diffuser or simply inhale the aroma of these oils straight from the bottle to take advantage of these benefits.
Do yoga
So this technically counts as working out, however, doing yoga is slightly different from other physical exercises. Yoga connects you to the power of breathing and mindful movement, that it forces you to be present. Additionally, it also helps decrease stress.
Try something new
Do something you’ve always been curious to try but never experienced, or create a bucket list of things you’d like to do! Doing either activity helps you be more mindful as you come up with the best ways that will help you focus and unwind from stressful moments.
Shawna Davis is a wellness journalist and the founder and creator of the wellness lifestyle blog, Froing and Flowing. Beyond the blog, she is a certified yoga instructor, wife, dog mama and is a natural hair enthusiast that’s passionate about health, wellness, and natural beauty. You can follow her on Instagram @itsshawnadavis.