Peace of Mind

Peace of mind is not the absence of conflict from life, but the ability to cope with it.” ~Unknown

April brings lots of change in the natural world.  Everywhere you look, things are morphing into a new shape, growing, shedding, bursting, and blowing.  The natural world and the living things in it aren’t still or stationary, they are ever chaotic.  That phrase about the “balance of nature” doesn’t really mean that nature IS balanced.  In fact, the natural world is constantly in chaos, seeking towards balance.  Maybe that’s how we are too, constantly in chaos, movement, change, but striving for balance.

It is this striving for balance that helps nature, and us, flourish.

I think one of the hardest things about staying healthy and happy is finding the strength to continue on even when things are tough, and the courage to believe that things will swing back in the other direction.  The courage that builds our strength ultimately roots back to our inner peace; our peace of mind and heart.

So, this week I am suggesting the idea of nourishing our inner peace.  Sounds like a tall order, but it can be accomplished through consistent, small efforts.  Here are some ideas to try.

Remembering to Smile

This is something that is so simple, yet can make a huge difference. Finding a way to smile (or even just stay positive) through tough or stressful situations can help you work towards an impactful solution and keep you from getting too worked up.  We all know how wonderful it is to bump into that person with the infectious smile.  Mantra: “Let it be me that shares an infectious smile.”

Loving-Kindness

“If you look for the bad in people expecting to find it, you surely will.” ~A. Lincoln

Wise statement.  The concept applies in looking for good as well.  If you work to notice and embrace the loving-kindness of others, you will find yourself exemplifying loving-kindness without even trying.   Mantra:  “Notice acts of loving kindness – see them, share them”

Embracing Quietness

This is something that I think a lot of people (including myself) struggle with. It can be hard to completely clear your mind and hear nothing but emptiness. But, if you embrace the weightlessness that comes with peaceful meditation, it becomes easier to push away the heaviness of stress and life.  Mantra:  Today I will sit quietly with myself for 5 minutes”.  More is even better!

EMBRACE YOURSELF this week and see what amazing things can come from it!