The pace of life is so rapid that it can create undue stress and the sheer number of activities comes at a cadence which never slows. How can we reduce the mental noise that becomes so pervasive and stress-inducing?
Here are four steps to implement into your daily routine to change the beat of your own mind’s drum.
Spend time in thoughtful meditation each morning
How can you create harmony in place of the stress? The session can be a short one. Five minutes of listening to the sounds around you and becoming more aware of the waking world can be enough. Spend those five minutes focusing on the different sounds in the house. Can you hear the dog jump off the sofa to greet you or the soft breathing of a child not yet awake? Nice, right?
Before 8 a.m., or the day before, prioritise the day ahead
Identify and list the top three things you must do based on what matters most to you and aligns with your goals. These may include playing with your kids, going to the gym, finishing a house beat or working on a novel. Set aside time for each item on your list before jumping into anything else, and don’t let anything shy of a life-threatening emergency take that precious time away from your vibe. Many people find it helpful to schedule this time on their calendar and treat it like a meeting.
Just after lunch
Go for a short walk or run and reassess your day. A 30-minute stroll outside can help you refocus your mental energies. This can be time spent with a friend whose company energises you or in solitude.
In the evening
Re-evaluate your day by jotting it down in your journal or liaising with an accountability partner. It will give you a more overarching perspective on what works and doesn’t and how it makes you feel.
These activities have helped slow the drumbeat cadence in my head to consciously focus my mind. That focus reduced your brain fog, creating, in place of the battle cadence, a slower, more comfortable tempo.
Disclosure: The information provided is for educational purposes only, based on personal experience, and should not be considered expert advice. Always seek guidance from qualified professionals regarding these topics.