What does stillness mean to you?
For most people, hearing the word “stillness,” brings thoughts to mind of sitting still without any sounds or movement. And while that is true, stillness also refers to having a sense of inner peace, serenity or calmness.
Because the sense of stillness I’m talking about involves the body, mind, and soul, there’re so many ways that you can practice getting to a state of stillness which will help keep you in a good place mentally and help you manage your stress before your stress manages you.
Being able to reach a place of stillness is something that everyone should have in their self-care repertoire. Read on to find out about 5 of the easiest ways that you can practice stillness in your life right now!
1. Take Time To Reflect
Do you ever take time to reflect? Many of us don’t. Instead we’re just going through the motions of life and never looking back. While that strategy is okay when you’re going through a difficult time and you’re just trying to make it through; because it helps you to avoid harping on the negatives and reliving bad experiences. However, it’s not always the best strategy because it prevents you from reflecting about the events and situations of your life, which prevents you from course correcting if necessary.
Taking time to reflect lets you see where you’ve come from and where you’re going. One of the best ways to practice stillness is by sitting down and reflecting on past events that have happened to you. Think about things that have happened, ideally happy moments, and think about what they meant to you and how they’ve changed you as a person for the better.
You can also use those reflections to think about what you want for yourself in the future. For example, if you’re looking for a new job or as an entrepreneur are looking to expand and you’re thinking about the direction you should take. Reflect upon those skills and abilities that you’ve most enjoyed using in the past (even all the way back to childhood) and find a position or direction that lets you use those abilities.
2. Focus On Gratitude
It’s human nature to spend a large part of our time dreaming about and planning for the future and using those dreams and plans to set new goals. And there’s nothing wrong with that as it motivates you to achieve. But ultimately, you can’t get where you’re going if you don’t take the time to appreciate the now.
How do you do that?
Take time to think about all of the good things that you have currently in life. All the things means everything - friends, family, physical items, and experiences you’ve had. Take time to be still and focus on the things in your life that make you smile. Those are the things that you’re grateful for.
When I go over the things I’m grateful for in my life, I try to take it a step further. Instead of just thinking about what you’re grateful for, you should also think about why you’re grateful for those things. While you’re at it, jot them down in a gratitude journal and review your journal regularly.
3. Just “Be”
I don’t know about you, but a lot of the time, I’m thinking about the things I should be doing on the running ‘to-do’ list in my head. Nowadays, many people are super busy running from one project to the next.
But how often do you take the time to just be still? And I mean still. Either sitting or lying where you are; not doing anything “productive,” not thinking about all of the things happening in your life and not distracted by your electronics. Just be.
It’s important to periodically take the time to just relax and do nothing. It’s an essential part of self-care. Taking a moment to be yourself is something that you can do no matter where you are. Just make sure that it’s a place where you feel comfortable and at ease. That way you can focus on your breath and let any negative thoughts pass on by and just existing.
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4. Try Meditation
2020 has been a hell of a year. There’s so much going on, that many people are feeling even more stressed out than usual because of the extra pressure. In times like these, it’s important to engage in stress management by increasing your self-care. Because of that, it’s a great idea to be proactive in ridding your mind of the stress you’re experiencing at any given point in time.
It’s easy to get started with meditation. Find a comfortable spot and play some soft music or a guided meditation track. Focus on taking deep breaths, clearing your mind of any lingering stress, and shifting your mind toward nothing (yes, nothing at all!). If you find it difficult to quiet your mind and meditate, read my post entitled, “3 Things To Know If You Feel Like A Failure At Meditation.”
5. Explore Your Little Corner Of The World
When was the last time you went any further than 30 minutes away from your house that didn’t involve going to work or shopping? Now, think about the last time you actually either explored your neighborhood or went off the beaten path and explored an area of nature close to you.
It’s not necessary to take a big major road trip; but try spending some time immersing yourself in the beauty of the world around you. It can be in your local park or even in your backyard. Look at the trees, see the clouds in the sky, feel the breeze on your face – it’ll help lower your blood pressure thereby lowering your stress.
Final Thoughts
When you begin to actively make time to add stillness into your life, you’ll begin to notice that it’s easier to have those moments of calm. It can take a little bit of time and effort on your part, especially in the beginning, but stick to it and you’ll reap the rewards of learning to just be. It’s all about making time.
Let’s talk. What do you do to add moments of stillness into your life? Let me know in the comments section.
Cassandra Martin-Himmons is a trainer, wellness coach and consultant who believes in empowering her clients and providing the tools that they need to make positive changes in their lives to manage their stress and increase their self-care. In her spare time, she enjoys papercrafting, volunteering and travel. Connect with her on Instagram or Linked/In