Are you looking to find peace? Life can be busy. Spouses, children, friends, careers, school, extended family, and household chores often require our time and attention.

How do we cope and handle multiple demands?

How do we take care of ourselves and find peace when so many people and responsibilities require our time and attention?

A while ago I shared how I’ve been dealing with the trauma in my life.

I would like to thank those of you who took the time to comment or e-mail me your messages of support. The overflowing kindness and compassion you showed was completely surprising and overwhelming. Thank you so very much!

With that being said, because of my circumstances, it takes some effort for me to find peace in my everyday life. Here are ten strategies that seem to work for me.

photo credit: Nadi Whatisdelirium on Unsplash

Unplug

Turn off your phone, the computers, and the television. You would be surprised at how much peace you can find when there isn’t a television program, a tweet, or an e-mail begging for your attention.

Pray

Whenever I’m seeking peace I turn to His promise: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” That’s a great promise to depend on!

Breathe

Seems simple but we often forget to breathe deeply. The key to finding peace in the breath is not just to take a deep inhale, but to also have a long, slow, and controlled exhale. Try to make your exhales longer than your inhales. Do this for 3 – 5 minutes and see the peace your can create simply by breathing.

Get outside

Go for a walk in your local park, sit in your yard, or head out to the country. Nature has so much to give. Don’t take it for granted… get out and enjoy it.

photo credit: Evan McDougall on Unsplash

Read a book

Not all books will give you peace but the act of reading can create a peaceful feeling.

Listen to some calming music

I find music can completely change my mood. When I listen to something fast and peppy, I feel energized and when I listen to something slow and mellow, I feel relaxed. Find what music calms you and listen to it.

Clean and organize your house

I find that a cluttered home can lead to chaotic and anxious feelings. Organize your surroundings and you may be surprised at how much more peaceful you feel.

Find a spot to be alone

Whether it’s a bench in a park, your bedroom, your bathtub, or a quiet coffee shop, find a place to be by yourself.

Exercise

I find exercise is a great way to clear my mind and make room for peace. Yoga is especially peaceful as the long holds and deep breaths aid in fostering peace.

Write or create

Sometimes we can’t have peace because so many thoughts and emotions are bottled up inside us. Releasing those thoughts and emotions into a journal or an artistic creation can be so relaxing and helps to make room for peace.

Are there any ways you find peace? I encourage you to share examples of how you create peace in your life.

Jennifer Bly

Author of My Kitchen, My Classroom: An Introduction to Homeschool and creator of The Deliberate Mom. Jennifer writes about parenting, homeschooling, her faith, and life with her husband and two girls. Jennifer has a Bachelor of Applied Human Service Administration Degree with a specialization in Early Learning in Child Care.