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As life becomes increasingly complicated I’ve come to appreciate the value of silence.
It can be relatively easy to find ways to turn down the noise in our lives: turn off the TV, take a hot bath, walk in the forest. The real challenge is turning off the internal chatter in our brains as self-talk can get pretty loud.
So how do you quiet your mind, sans tequila? Many self-help measures give temporary relief, however, some can add to the stress. For example, getting a pedicure, manicure or a massage can provide a momentary break from the clatter but it's one more thing to fit into an already tight schedule which can contribute to overwhelm.
Try this: First, Simplify. Cut the clutter from your life by eliminating cumbersome elements that don't align with your values, whether physical or mental aspects of life. Just let them go. Make an intentional decision that only the important things to you deserve your attention. You will immediately feel liberated as you unload and cut unnecessary elements loose. Next, practice meditation. Find a quiet place, take deep cleansing breaths, and do some visualization exercises. The more you do it, the easier it will come, leading to feelings of serenity. Eventually, noisy self-talk quiets down and gives way to feelings of calm and joy. Finally, practice giving. When we care for ourselves we are in a better position to care for others.
