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One of the biggest obstacles to creating calmness in your life is the sheer amount of overwhelm you face each day. We’ve already talked about the different kinds of clutter that are a constant barrage on your peace of mind. It can seem impossible to overcome these messes in order to achieve pleasant surroundings and a quiet mind. That’s why I often recommend carving out just one place within your home to go in order to escape. Creating a calm space can help you to get started on your journey toward a more peaceful life.

Why Create Such a Space?

Having your own private retreat actually offers a number of benefits. When it comes to physical clutter, it makes sense to choose just one room so that you can lessen the overwhelm that comes from trying to manage a houseful of too much stuff. Clearing out one room is easier than dealing with all of it. Plus, just getting started can help to motivate you with the bigger project. Also, having one dedicated space to calm can help you to release a great deal of mental clutter, as well. You’ll have a Zen Oasis to which you can retreat after a long day or when you’re feeling particularly anxious. This is something everyone can benefit from.

How to Choose Your Room

Many people consider their bedroom to be their oasis. It’s a quiet, private space meant for relaxation. This space really is a good one for creating an escape. However, if you share a bedroom or prefer not to use this room for some other reason, there are definitely ways to make other places in your abode work. First and foremost, you will want to pick a room that offers privacy. If your family congregates in the kitchen, this probably isn’t the best place for a private retreat. It’s also good if the spot offers quiet and calming surroundings. You can always clear out the physical clutter, but if you hate the carpet or the wall color, you may wish to go with some other space. A room with a door and that offers various lighting options are also some things to consider when choosing your retreat.

What to Include

Your calm space should be personalized and unique to you. However, there are some common characteristics to consider when customizing your room. As noted, lighting matters. Bright overhead lights can be too much for relaxing. Be sure to have a lamp, floor lights, or candles available.

Aromatherapy is a nice touch for helping to release mental overwhelm. Scented candles, a reed diffuser, or room spray are recommended, unless you’re especially sensitive to smells. Soft textures can add a calming element, so you might pick up a plush area rug to sit on or opulent bedding and some cushy throw pillows. Finally, be sure to add touches that are special and meaningful to you and your sensibilities. Perhaps a nice desk and chair are something that is important to you so that you can do your writing. If you’re a tea lover, you could set up a cart with a hot plate and an assortment of fine teas. The possibilities truly are endless.

Creating your own calm space can provide you with more than an escape. It can give you the peace of mind, leading you to be refreshed and renewed to face each day.

Today, I’d like to introduce you to a practice that is known to tame the overwhelm of your mind. Meditation can do just that, and it offers numerous benefits for your brain and your overall well-being. Let’s take a look.

About Meditation

Meditation is a practice in which you work to still the mind and to concentrate only on the present moment. It can take a number of forms such as guided imagery, mindfulness meditation, breathing exercises, and more. No matter which form it takes, the main point of such exercises is to focus attention, eliminating distractions and intrusive thoughts. This practice has been in use by various cultures for thousands of years, which is proof to me that it is effective and useful. Some cultures consider meditation to be a part of their religion, and it can be a very spiritual activity in general. These days, people usually meditate in an attempt to overcome the stress and anxiety associated with the modern world. It has the power to lead to a tranquil state and overall improved well-being when done regularly.

Benefits of Meditation

Meditation offers a wide range of benefits. Many of these are directly related to the practitioner’s state of mind, but the practice can also improve physical health. The effects are long-lasting. You’ll find yourself feeling calmer and noting improvements in your physical well-being long after your meditation session ends. Meditation helps to diminish the mental overload that can overwhelm you, leading to less stress. This renewed state can often provide you with clarity when it comes to the issues you face throughout your life. Health benefits of meditation include decreased depression symptoms, lessened anxiety, reduction in chronic pain, improved sleep, and less frequent tension headaches, among others.

A Simple Breathing Meditation

While there are a number of different kinds of mediations, one of the easiest to start with is a simple breathing exercise. Controlled breathing is a part of many meditative practices. It can help you to gain focus and to “blow away” stress. Find a quiet space with a comfortable chair. Sit up straight, with your feet flat on the floor. You could also take a seated position on a floor pillow if you prefer. Begin by inhaling deeply, pushing your stomach muscles, or diaphragm, outward. Inhale slowly, allowing your stomach to return to its resting position. Continue this until you find a comfortable rhythm. Try to push all thoughts out of your mind, but don’t worry too much if intrusive ideas sneak in. Five minutes is usually long enough to gain the benefits, but your session can be as long as is comfortable when starting out.

Meditation is a practice that can provide tremendous calming benefits. It’s easy to do and is especially effective when done regularly. Give it a try to see how meditating works for you.

Recommended Resources

There are a few specific recommendations for you:

1. The app called HeadSpace will help you to meditate mindfully. They provide sessions of guided meditations which are easy to follow. Simply download it on your iPhone or Android device, go ahead, and unplug from the world for a few moments!
2. Flow State Training Program by C. Wilson Meloncelli. This is an Ancient forgotten art of breathing, now backed by in-depth Scientific studies has catapulted elite athletes’ performance levels by 300% – 500% while simultaneously boosting testosterone levels, brain function, improving recovery time, curing anxiety, fatigue, sleep problems, respiratory conditions, controlling weight gain issues. AND hacking you into the optimal performance state of mind…the flow state. Which can talk very quickly and only need to be practised 5 mins a day to reap the rewards.