5 Ways to Channel Your Inner Peace

Peace is important, actually it's necessary! No matter what you do or what type of person you are... odds are you long for some peace and quiet at some point in your day or week. But in reality, it's hard to come by! Whether you're a 9-5er, a business owner or a mommy or daddy to a little one, every waking moment is spent consumed doing something. You're working all day, you have to hit the gym between work and home and once you get home, it's dinner, shower, doing some additional work, prep for your next day and then back at it! -- or is that just me? Oh and don't even mention how social media has taken over our lives. I've given up on Twitter, but if I'm not on Facebook, I'm scrolling on Instagram, Tumblin' away or checking out my favorite bloggers new posts -- ahh, it's so addicting!

In the midst of it all though, I've learned to seek out some time for MYSELF. I can't stress enough how vital "me-time" is, especially as we get older and our lives get busier by the moment. I've also learned to say no. When my friends ask me to go out and I really just don't feel like it, I say no... no excuse needed. There was a time when I felt I always had to be on the scene or at every event for fear I would miss out on something, but that has definitely changed now. I'm learning that putting myself first is most important and keeps my health in tip-top shape, not to mention keeps my mood and spirit happy and upbeat! (which is good for all of those that have to be around me! lol)

Check out a few ways to channel your inner peace and keep a good flow of energy around you:

1. Yoga 
This is my absolute fave! Since becoming a Yogi a couple years back, I just love the peace that the exercise brings to my life. Flexible or not, there is a class and teacher out there that will work with you! Trust me, a great place to leave all of your stress is on the mat!

2. Meditation
It takes some work and practice and ABSOLUTE silence, but it's worth it. Take a walk in nature or sit in your favorite corner of your house, whatever you choose take about 10 minutes to center your mind around absolutely nothing. There is no special art to mediating other than breathing easy and just letting it all go.

3. Writing
I love to write. Sometimes I have nothing at all to write about but will pull out a book and pen and just have at it. Other times, I write short and long term goals or just my thoughts for the moment, which really helps me. Try making a list of things that stress you out and then burn it or rip it up -- vowing to leave those things exactly where they belong... in the past.

4. Eating Alone
It's great to grab food with friends or your significant other but sometimes having a meal alone is just what the peace doctor ordered. Don't even allow your friend IPad and MacBook to come either. Just you and the meal. Take some time to reflect on your life and your future and enjoy your meal with no pressure or rush.

5. Cleaning
I know, I know. Since when is cleaning fun? But uncluttering your space often helps unclutter your life! Blast some music, get a bottle of wine and try taking it a small space at a time. Toss old paperwork or stuff that you're holding on to for that "one day" and organize your home. By the end of the cleaning session, you've burned off some stress and you are now living in a space conducive to thinking positively and peacefully!

"Be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars. In the noisy confusion of life, keep peace within your soul."

So what about you? Are you getting enough peace in your life? and what are your favorite methods for channeling your inner peace?