3 Tips to Finding Your Zen in 2021
“Serenity is NOT peace from the storm, but peace AMID the storm.”
-Unknown
We are all searching for a port in the storm that was 2020 and the chaos left behind that we carry with us still into the new year as that storm only rages on. Here are 3 tips to start you on the journey to achieving your own personal peace in the new year. Old ways won’t open new doors so this year we are putting mental health first, learning to set healthy boundaries, and making new practices routine in our daily lives!
NORMALIZE & PRIORITIZE MENTAL HEALTH
I have never felt healthier than the periods of my life that I am actively seeing a mental health professional. In these “new normal” times, you can do video calls now and adjust your check-in schedule as needed (weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly) The benefits are consistent personal accountability and gaining an advocate in your health who has no other ulterior motive nor personal investment in anything but your growth! It also models for the next generation how to normalize asking for help and working on yourself!
Say yes to meditation, journaling, and affirmations! Meditation apps such as Calm are free to download and YouTube also provides options that include guided meditations in different lengths for different decompression areas based on your search (empowerment, peace, anxiety relief). Yoga classes may be available in your area that gather in a limited number, outdoors, and require masks for safety or can also be guided at home via video. Google classes near you and filter based on your comfort levels. Affirmations are about training you inner voice, redirecting your energy from negative to positive, and encouraging a personal sense of empowerment. Amazon.com and TeachersPayTeachers.com offer a variety of mindfulness journals. Looking for a different take on a journal? Try one with built-in writing prompts that is also black owned. Check out @messinabottle on IG or messinabottle.com
Keep the focus on working out your body and mind! Engage in activities that strengthen you inside and out.
SET BOUNDARIES
Repeat after me…It is ok to put yourself first, it is necessary to put yourself first! It is ok to say NO when you have reached your limits, it is necessary to say NO when you have reached your limits! Know what your limits are when giving of your self, your time, your generosity, and your chances, what you can and can’t take on at work, home, or in your relationships. This is different for everyone! Give it real consideration, then draw the line in the sand! Verbalize and be clear with your boundaries, then make sure your actions follow!
CREATE A ROUTINE
Oh but who has the time? Well, time is relative! We make the time for the things in life we deem most valuable. If anything, time is life! You are living moments you will never get back, so make the time count and spend your time purposefully by investing in your growth and practicing ways to protect your peace! Establish a schedule in which you are only giving 15-30 minutes a day toward something for your body strength, your mind strength, and strengthening your spirit! That’s only 45 minutes a day! You definitely have 45 minutes to invest in developing you and building a healthier life! You can always build up to more!