Feeling Peaceful

By Candy

When it comes to thinking “peace,” you probably picture a dove, the Middle East or The GAP’s latest campaign … and maybe even Woodstock.

But how about peace of mind?

Sure, it’s one of the more difficult states to achieve while balancing finals, jobs and boyfriends, not to mention, holiday chaos. But it is possible with the proper amount of balance. Just trying just one of these ideas from psychologist Dr. John H. Sklare can help you achieve that overall “om” feeling:

Physically relax. Breathing slowly and rhythmically can help you to relax muscular and nervous tension, especially if you concentrate on feeling that sense of calm move through your body.

Think peace. If you consciously think about how valuable feeling calm is, you will be able to act on it as well, especially during a stressful day.

Serene mantras. Find a word or phrase that you can repeat throughout the day that makes you feel relaxed. Even the word peace works!

Use your imagination. If you know that studying for chem stresses you out, picture yourself feeling calm. Do this for any situation that tenses you up, and you should feel better when the actual event occurs.

Engage yourself every day. Look in the mirror every morning and tell yourself to remain peaceful, which will help you minimize stress throughout the day, no matter what may happen. Dr. Sklare says this can help you “be more of an active participant in your life and you can literally change the world you live in.” Sounds pretty good.

Just think – the ideas may sound a little granola, but practice does make perfect. Why not practice having some peace in your life?

Merry Christmas!