Harmony and Balance do not occur in the absence of hardship. True peace is attainable when you learn to calm your thoughts in the midst of adversity. Unfortunately, it is one of the hardest lessons to master, and yet, one of the most important lessons to learn.
In a perfect world, we would have been taught this most important of abilities as children. However, all too often we have to learn this ability on the winding road of adult development.
We all are faced with conflict throughout the course of the human experience, and that is a fact of life. Sometimes it is with another, or with yourself, and sometimes it is illness.
But whatever the conflict, we can use the same methods to ward off fear, anxiety, anger and overall world wariness we all feel at times.
“You will not be punished for your anger, you will be punished by your anger.” ~Buddha
Early riser – Many of the great artists, designers and thinkers of the world wake up before most. After a night of sleep, most people’s brains are at their most creative and peaceful. Use this time to pick up a pen and paper and write down your thoughts. Let the words flow organically. If stuck, look outside, spend time in your garden, or take an early morning walk, (preferably in a place where there are trees).
Fill your brain with peaceful thoughts before you let anything else in – Many people enjoy reading the teachings of Buddha to remind themselves of the importance of maintaining a peaceful state of mind. Or perhaps flip through the pages of your favorite author, or a magazine that inspires. (I enjoy design magazines and their creative verve).
Seek others – What are others doing that may work for you? Like recipes, it never hurts to try something new!
Share – Based on your level of comfort, share your thoughts with those whom you trust. Sometimes we write what we cannot say. This is a powerful tool not to be discounted.
Silence and noise – Most people need both in their lives. Silence can bring inner peace and calm just by blocking out your surrounds and listening to the breaths travel in and out of your body. Even a minute of this a day has the ability to give your body and mind a break, and keep you in rhythm. Noise on the other hand can be anything from listening to your favorite music, or hosting a social gathering. Noise is another way to find body and mind rhythm on a different level, so long that you are listening to music you enjoy, and surrounded by people who love you.
“Nothing is permanent. Everything is subject to change. Being is always becoming.” ~Buddha
It is important to note – methods that worked one day, may not work the day after. We live in an ever-changing world, and therefore must be patient and flexible in our journey to find calm.
Always remember to go easy on yourself, because you deserve all the benefits of balance and harmony.
Be you. Find balance. Be more present than you were the day before.