How To Find And Keep Inner Peace

Finding and keeping inner peace can be a lifelong journey, but here are some tips to help you get started:

Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and observing your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Mindfulness can help you stay centred and calm, even in challenging situations. Being mindful means focusing on what's happening right now instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. You can practice mindfulness by paying attention to your breath, noticing the sensations in your body, or simply observing your thoughts without getting carried away by them. Regular practice of mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety, increase self-awareness, and improve overall well-being, and it can help you cultivate a sense of inner peace.

Prioritise self-care: Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul, such as exercise, meditation, reading, or spending time in nature. Taking care of yourself is essential to maintaining inner peace. It also means getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in regular exercise. Be kind to yourself and allow yourself to rest when you need it.

Cultivate gratitude: Focus on the good things in your life and practice gratitude daily. This can help you develop a positive outlook and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. Gratitude can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. Take time every day to appreciate the people, things, and experiences in your life; whether it's your health, your relationships, or a beautiful sunset. Express gratitude to others, and be thankful for the small things in life.

Set boundaries: Learn to say no to activities or people that drain your energy or cause stress. Setting healthy boundaries can help you protect your peace of mind and prioritise your needs. It is likely that some people you encounter won’t take no for an answer; rather than entering an argument just quietly and calmly restate your position and *walk* away - don’t strop.

Let go of the past: Holding onto grudges or past hurts can cause emotional turmoil and disrupt inner peace. Practice forgiveness and let go of resentment to free yourself from emotional baggage. This may involve journaling, talking to a therapist, getting some life coaching. or simply acknowledging and accepting your emotions without judgment. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques to find methods that work for you. I’ve written about grudges here and how to forgive here.

Surround yourself with positivity: Seek out relationships and environments that uplift and inspire you. This can help you maintain a positive mindset and stay grounded in your inner peace. Building positive relationships with others can provide a sense of community, support, and belonging. Spend time with people who uplift and inspire you. Cultivate friendships and connections with people who share your interests, values, and passions.

Engage in activities that bring you joy: Doing things that you love can bring a sense of happiness and fulfilment. Whether it's reading a book, painting, or going for a hike, find activities that bring you joy and make time for them. Engaging in activities that you enjoy can boost your mood and give you a sense of accomplishment. Make time for hobbies or activities that you find pleasurable, and don't worry about whether you're "good" at them. The goal is to have fun and enjoy the process.

Connect with nature: Spending time in nature can be calming and rejuvenating. Take a walk in the park or go for a hike, and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature. Being in nature can help reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being. You could also sit by a body of water, or spend time gardening. Allow yourself to feel connected to the natural world.

Remember that finding and maintaining inner peace is a journey, not a destination. It requires consistent effort and self-awareness. Practice these tips regularly, and don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques until you find what works best for you.