Inner peace is a state of mind that is often characterized by feelings of calmness, understanding, and consciousness. When achieved, there is a sense of being enlightened and peaceful, even in the presence of stressors.
Getting in touch with our inner self is not boring. It does not mean that we will be passive, either. Instead, it will allow us to have calm hearts, even in times of adversity.
Why is achieving inner peace necessary? Is it even possible for average individuals? Is inner peace closely related to happiness?
Many of us are looking towards achieving it for a good reason. To help you, here are the reasons why your inner peace is vital in your life, and some techniques to attain it.
Why is your inner peace important?
Achieving inner peace does not only apply to monks and yogis. As regular individuals who live ordinary lives, we can still benefit from enlightenment, because:
It allows us to focus on our goals
When we are at peace, we can put the passion and energy we have towards achieving our goals instead.
Just look at it this way: the time we spend every day comparing ourselves to other people will no longer be a habit. Since we are able to accept who we are while wanting to improve for our own benefit, we are planting a garden that only we can cultivate.
Being mentally and spiritually at peace gives us the chance to go towards situations that challenge us and changes us for the better. Because of this, we’re also taught to be patient with each hurdle we encounter while trying to reach our goals.
It improves our relationship with ourselves and others
When we practice consciousness and inner peace, we are able to understand ourselves better.
What are the things that make us happy? What are the things that bring us stress? In being aware of our individuality, we can honestly be more accepting of how we are different and work on building ourselves up instead of tearing it down.
When we are mindful of our own identity, we are also improving our relationship with the people we love and interact with. It is no longer about us all the time. We are more aware of how we can influence others while also being careful of our words and actions.
It allows us to lessen negative thoughts and emotions
Being at peace gives us the opportunity to be mindful of our thoughts and emotions. It allows us to think of ways to cope in a healthy manner.
When we are stressed and anxious, it is easy to fall into the trap of being too explosive with the way we act. At times, it may be the reason why we turn to unhealthy ways. According to Psychology Today, stress can lure us in seeking relief by turning to unhealthy habits such as “alcohol, comfort food, or overspending.” Although they may “provide temporary relief and distraction,” they are still bad vices that can wreak havoc on our lives. (1)
This reminds us that inner peace doesn’tmean that we will no longer be angry or depressed. Instead, it teaches us the importance of learning strategies to come to terms with overwhelming emotions and moods.
It’s the key to genuine happiness
Achieving inner peace allows us to be on the path towards experiencing genuine happiness.
This is the main reason why it is vital in our lives. Being at peace allows us to prioritize positive thoughts and dwell on the present and future. As a result, we can attain a prolonged state of joy and one that stays with us for long periods of time.
Being at peace provides comfort, even when alone. We can be content even without too many material things. We are no longer enticed by the material things or owning too much stuff. As individuals, we understand that as long as we have the essentials, it is possible to live a healthy and joyful life.
Ways to achieve inner peace
Are you ready to make a progress with achieving tranquility and true happiness? Here are six simple techniques you can do:
1. Listen and be kind to yourself
If you want to be at peace, start with the way you treat yourself. Self-love is crucial to attaining inner peace.
Listen to what your consciousness is telling you. You deserve to be heard.
2. Respond to criticism healthily
Somebody always has something to say. Friends and family may comment on the way you look and offer advice that isn’t wanted.
Being at peace allows you to not take these criticisms too much at heart. Remember, it is also healthy to set boundaries. If you are not comfortable with the way other people treat you, you can express the reasons and let them understand why they need to stop. If they don’t, walk away. Humans love to thrive in groups. However, it is important to remember that we can also grow on our own.
3. Accept your mistakes in the past
Self-forgiveness is not that simple. It is a sad reality that many of us are more open to forgiving other people, but are too critical of the way we treat ourselves.
If the goal is inner harmony, it will be difficult to attain it if we do not accept our mistakes. Forgiving ourselves involves the process of understanding the why’s of our actions. This way, we will be able to change and mold ourselves in an improved manner.
4. Bond with nature
Did you ever hear other people say that nature heals them? According to science, they are actually saying the truth.
Taking the time to step outside our homes or apartments is very beneficial for us to achieve inner peace. In our day-to-day lives, it is easy for the day to be complete, and all we did was to be in front of our computers for hours. Although it is essential to work, it is extremely important to take breaks. Exposing yourself to sunlight makes you happier.
When you are free, take a stroll in your local park. Sit down on a bench and just take in your surroundings. Observe the birds and listen to their tunes.
5. Meditate and relax
Mindfulness meditation is one of the best ways to achieve inner peace. When done consistently, not only will it improve the way we see ourselves, but also make an impact on our physical and mental health.
What are the best ways to meditate? It depends on your preference. Some people like to use sound frequency, while others just like to practice breathing techniques. No matter what your chosen style is, just make sure that you like it enough for you to do it many times a week.
Frequent meditation gives us the chance to detoxify our bodies and mind. It allows us to release the negative thoughts, anxiety, and stress that make us lonely and sluggish. Begin with 5 minutes of meditation every day and gradually increase the duration once you are comfortable.
6. Be grateful and appreciate the simple things
Want to attain inner harmony? When you are able to be grateful for the present, you are also paving the path in your future.
We understand how it can be difficult to be thankful in light of the current events. Some of us may be struggling financially, while some may be sick or having problems with their mental health. However, if we only think of the negatives, in a way, it makes it easier to be caught in the storm.
We are not saying that you should forget the bad things that happened to you. Instead, we want you to remember how you were able to cope with these experiences. How did you make yourself stronger?
Make a list of at least one thing you are grateful for every day. It could be on a notebook that you will write on before you sleep.
Start your journey towards achieving inner peace
“Do not let the behavior of others destroy your inner peace.” – Dalai Lama
The road you will traverse when finding your inner peace is not always a smooth path. However, if you make use of the techniques above partnered with the meditation tools that work well with your goal, then it is possible to make your experience more enjoyable and interesting.
You have the power to achieve inner peace. Start setting yourself up for victory in small steps.
References
- 7 Ways to Experience Inner Peace | Psychology Today
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/hope-relationships/202106/7-ways-experience-inner-peace
