I find myself wondering where the time went numerous times a day. As a perfectionist that tends to overthink and place unrealistic expectations on himself, there are times I feel absolutely overwhelmed, disconnected, and stagnant. Moments such as this allow anxiety and depression to creep in. Sadly, the daily rat race exists only to exacerbate these feelings. The tools we use to cope can be a great help, but it’s fruitless if we’re not putting in the work and taking a more willful approach to our wellbeing.

Life comes at us incredibly fast. We run the risk of burnout if we don’t take a moment to breathe and find solace. When we’re overcast by stress it can be difficult to lift the fog and gain clarity. Predetermining our wellbeing is not impossible and it is not ambitious to want to attain wholeness and peace for ourselves. We have the power to shift our own paradigm. If you’re wondering where to start, I have a few tidbits to share.

Write It Down

The best place to start with intentional wellness is by making a list. I write everything down, so this one was easy! A little over a year ago, I made a list of all the things that weren’t serving me. Some of these things were people or situations that were draining the very life out of me. Alcohol, certain family members and friends, and other factors that added to my stress littered this list. It was not long before I felt empowered to scratch them off. By identifying what areas of my life needed improvement, I’m able to move forward each day with these things in mind and cultivate them. By taking one or two items from your list and committing yourself to make the changes you want to see, you’ll be feeling better and ready to take on what challenges come next in no time.

Journaling is also a great way to ease your mind. To be specific, keeping a gratitude journal is practical! Writing down the things you’re grateful for, what you’re looking forward to, or reflections on past events you’ve learned from can clear up headspace in a major way. In the past, I’ve kept one and it’s fun to revisit whenever I feel dispirited. There’s always a silver lining. Groom yourself to see it.

Clear Your Space

Quiet the mind, and the soul will speak. Achieving a clear head and being present go far when you need a brain reset. Deep breathing exercises, stretching, and good music is my jam when I am seeking tranquility. Burn some incense, get a little  “Nam Myoho Renge Kyo” going, and be INTENTIONAL about achieving your peace of mind. 

Seriously, meditation isn’t for everyone. To be honest, I get distracted so I opt for listening to relaxing music and practicing deep breathing exercises to help me wind down. Whatever your chosen relaxation method is, if it allows you to achieve a relaxing and grounded frame of mind, keep doing it and do so with a strong resolve. Happiness and misery both come from the mind. Find time to breathe and be present.

Clutter also invites chaos. For me, letting go of the physical stuff is an easy and tangible place to begin. When my space is clean and organized, my mental space follows suit. 

Sometimes it may be people who’ve worn out their welcome. If you feel like unfavorable individuals are taking up space, clear them out.

Take a moment to check your inventory to see what’s no longer needed. 

Rewire Your Brain

Replace the negative, intrusive thoughts with positive ones. This one takes a lot of practice because we frequently have “gut feelings” or learned reactions to things we do not like. When I’m feeling bad about myself and entertaining negative thoughts, I am less likely to take positive action to change things. Arguably, this is easier said than done. Hence, why it is so important that we intentionally enforce healthy, constructive notions of ourselves. That small, pessimistic voice in the back of our heads can be restrained. 

Whether you choose to keep a journal, seek therapy, or simply do the small, productive things that help you stay clear from moment to moment; you can find the peace you seek by intentionally loving and appreciating who you are. The negative thoughts are not reality. 

Keep in mind that healing yourself and being intentional about wellness is an ongoing process. There is no endgame. As a byproduct of being human, our needs change over time. Show yourself some patience and grace and be encouraged.