11 Practical Ways To Live A More Conscious Life: Find Calm in the Chaos

Finding Calm in the Chaos to Live More Mindfully

Our lives move at such a super-fast pace anymore. There's always news to watch, work to do, places to be, not to mention social media. It's easy to get swept up in the rush, but have you ever wondered if there's a better way? A way to live your life where you're in control, feeling calmer and happier? Good news – there is! Let's explore some simple steps toward a more mindful way of living.

1. Caring For Yourself

You and your well-being are so important! Remember to schedule some time to do things just for you. A warm bath, some time outside enjoying the fresh air, or listening to your favorite songs all help you recharge and feel your best.

• Identify your "me-time" favorites: Is it a long bath, reading on the sofa, or gardening? Recognize what truly recharges you.
• Schedule it in: Treat your self-care time with the same importance as any other appointment
• No guilt allowed: Remind yourself you deserve rest and rejuvenation to be your best self for others.

2. Savor Your Food

Eating should not be a race. Sit down, put your phone away, and truly taste your meals. Notice how they smell, and the different textures in your mouth. It is noted that when you are present with your meal, it can help you eat less and enjoy more. Remember, good food gives your body the energy it needs!

• Engage your senses:  Take a moment before your first bite to look at your food, smell its aroma. Notice how it feels in your hand and against your lips as you eat.
• Eliminate distractions:  Turn off TVs and put your phone on silent. Focus solely on the experience of your meal.
• Appreciate the journey:  Think about where your food came from – the farmers who grew it, the people who cooked it. This gratitude strengthens your connection to your meal.

3. Take Tech Breaks

Phones, laptops, and TVs are awesome, but sometimes our brains need a rest from all those screens. Go for a walk outside, curl up with a book, or sit silent for a little bit while you enjoy your thoughts and peace of mind, maybe watch out the window at the garden or the clouds. It's amazing how refreshed you'll feel.

• Set screen-free zones:  Designate parts of your home (like your bedroom) or times of day (like meal times) as tech-free.
• Rediscover old hobbies:  Did you once love drawing or playing an instrument? Revive those passions you set aside.
• The nature cure:  Spend time outdoors – even just sitting on your porch or balcony can be incredibly restorative for the mind.

4. Yoga and Deep Breaths

Yoga is like exercise for your mind and body. It helps you stay flexible and teaches you how to focus. Taking some time for some simple deep breathing exercises can also be helpful. When you feel worried, take a few slow breaths in and out – it calms you right down!

• Start small: There's no pressure to be flexible or master complex poses. Find beginner-friendly yoga videos online or simply try a few basic stretches.
• Box breathing: Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4. Repeat this pattern whenever you feel overwhelmed.
• TBody scan: Lie comfortably and bring your attention to each part of your body in turn, noticing any sensations and releasing tension.

5. Truly Listen to Others

With everyone in a hurry, conversations can feel rushed. Try to focus and listen when someone speaks to you. Don't just think about what you'll say next – focus on understanding them. You'll be amazed at how much better your friendships feel!

• Minimize interruptions: Put your phone away and find a quiet spot to focus on the conversation at hand.
• Empathetic body language: Make eye contact, nod, and offer small gestures to show you're engaged.
• Ask clarifying questions: "I think I heard you say… Is that right?". This demonstrates you're genuinely trying to understand.

6. Think Before You Buy

There are ads everywhere you look. Online, offline, on the TV, on your device, shopping ads are all around with things you may want or need. You might want to ask yourself a couple of questions before you buy to help with your decisions: "Will I truly use this a lot?" "Is this made in a way that's kind to the planet?"

• Explore the "why":  Dig deeper into the impulse to buy. Are you bored, stressed, or feeling social pressure? Recognizing the root of your desire can help you choose differently.
• The waiting game:  Give yourself a 24-hour cooling-off period before hitting "buy." Often, the urge simply fades.
• Research alternatives:  Can you borrow it from a library instead? Is there a second-hand option available? Investigate other ways to satisfy your need.

Thinking first means we buy less, which saves money and helps the environment!

7. Go Green!

Being mindful not only means caring for yourself, but also caring for our planet. Whenever possible, use natural skin and body care products. Switch to environmentally friendly household products. Could you start composting your food scraps? Can you walk somewhere instead of taking the car? Even small changes help create a healthier world.

• Simple swaps:  Change to reusable water bottles, cloth napkins, or bar soap instead of shower gel. Each little switch counts.
• Resources are your friend:  Explore websites and books about sustainable living, full of practical ideas for your home.
• Small-scale impact:  Can you grow herbs on your window sill or start biking to work one day a week? Start where you can!

8. Be Thankful

Sometimes it's easy to focus on what we don't have. Try thinking about all the amazing things in your life – friends, family, a roof over your head. Writing them down each day helps you remember how lucky you are.

• Gratitude jar: Keep slips of paper next to a jar. Every day, jot down one thing you're grateful for. Re-read them on tough days.
• Thankful moments: Pause at the end of each day to reflect on 3 good things that happened, no matter how small.
• Share it: Expressing gratitude to loved ones strengthens the feeling and deepens your bonds.

9. Never Stop Learning

Reading new books and trying new hobbies keeps your brain active and happy. It also helps you understand the world (and its people!) even better.

• Library love: It's a treasure trove of free knowledge! Borrow books, magazines, and documentaries on topics that interest you.
• Online courses: There are many platforms that offer affordable learning opportunities on a vast array of subjects.
• Ask the experts: Do you know someone who is a whiz at gardening or speaks another language? Ask if they'd share their knowledge!

10. Helping Your Community

Have you noticed how good it feels to help someone out? Volunteering to clean up your park or reading to kids in the library shows others you care. Support small businesses whenever possible. Sharing kindness builds a happier place for everyone.

• Match your skills: Are you good with animals? Volunteer at a shelter. Love organizing? Help out at a food bank.
• Micro-volunteering: Even small acts of kindness count – picking up litter, shoveling snow for an elderly neighbor, etc.
• The ripple effect: Your kindness inspires others and creates a cycle of positive change

11. Work-Life Balance

Work is important, but so is time for fun and relaxation. Try to leave work worries at work, and truly enjoy your free time whenever possible. Find a job you love, and you'll feel happier all around!

• Set boundaries: Avoid checking work email outside designated hours whenever possible.
• Delegate & say no: Can you share a task or politely decline extra commitments? Protecting your time is essential.
• Transition rituals: A short walk or a change of clothes can signal to your brain that "work mode" is over.

Remember It's a Journey

Living more mindfully isn't about being perfect, it's about making small changes that add up. Even trying one or two ideas from this list can make a big difference. Be kind to yourself, and celebrate every step towards a calmer, more conscious life!