Fight Stress with a Little Serenity

Being calm is about finding a moment of quiet in the chaos of everyday life. Slowing down, taking a breath, and embracing peace can all help give you a new perspective on your day, and help you be ready for the challenges that may come your way. And while finding tranquility in today’s hectic world can be a struggle, The Book of Calm gives you what you need to find peace, no matter the situation. Throughout the book you’ll find 250 ways to fill yourself with a feeling of peace, calm, and well-being, including: 

 

Ujjayi breath is a very calming breath that sounds like the ocean or the sound you would hear if you put your ear next to a seashell. To achieve this breath, softly draw out the word home as you exhale (hhhhoooommme). Say this word in a whisper. Now say it as you round and gently close your mouth. You can also reverse and draw in the word. It may sound like Darth Vader, only much softer and less scary. 

 

The Japanese have a name for spending time among trees: shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing,” which has been shown to reduce stress and improve immunity. You can draw peace and comfort from the company of trees, whether they’re in your yard, at your local park, or along a walking trail. The sound of rustling leaves, the woodsy scents, and the dappled light all soothe the soul in a major way—particularly when you use your powers of attention to really appreciate them. Hugging and climbing the trees are optional (but encouraged!). 

 

If your last nap was twenty to thirty years ago, take some time today for a quick nap. A quick thirty-minute midday nap has been proven to lessen stress, increase learning, and improve health. This may be hard if you are at work, but even closing your eyes for five minutes in your office is proven to relieve stress and give you a boost of energy. Those few moments will help you decompress and give your body the needed break it deserves. Be careful of napping for more than an hour, as you may have a hard time falling asleep that evening. 

 

Laughter is truly like medicine. It breaks up negativity, and calms your fears and anxieties. The laughing sounds of ha and he increase the movement of energy in your body. If you feel stressed or worried, take some time to watch your favorite funny movie or comedy special, a classic cartoon, or read through your favorite web comic. You can even search for funny Internet videos; there are hours of content compiled to make you giggle. Once you get a good belly laugh going, close your eyes and embrace that feeling of laughing very hard, deep in your belly. The power and positive energy of a good laugh can soothe negative emotions, and help you calm yourself down even after a very tough day.