This year I’d like to share with you my top tips for how you can consciously create calm in your life. No matter where you are on your journey, no matter what season of life you are in, you are capable of creating calm. I know this because I see it every single day in my work. It is possible. You can do it. The road may be bumpy, but you will get there. I promise.

All of the strategies listed below align with Create Calm Lifestyle’s foundational pillars – Nourish, Move, Restore, Dwell, Connect, and Prosper. To learn more about the Create Calm Lifestyle and our pillars, read here.

Here are seven of my top tips to create calm:

1. Clear space (Dwell). We live in a culture of excess. It’s become a cultural norm to binge TV, food, shopping, exercise, alcohol, work, etc. Too much of anything isn’t good for us. We simply cannot create calm when our lives are so cluttered. By consciously clearing physical, mental, and emotional clutter, we create space for the life we actually want. If you are in need of support/guidance with this process, please contact us. We are here to help.
2. Meditate (Restore). There is a reason meditation has become so popular – it works! The benefits of meditation are numerous: It reduces stress and anxiety, enhances mental clarity, improves self-awareness, increases concentration and attention span, reduces memory loss, generates empathy and kindness, and improves sleep. And, while clearing space is essential to creating calm, it takes time. Meditation is the support system you need during the process of decluttering your life. Try the Insight Timer app, or set a timer for 2 minutes. Focus on your breath moving in and out of your body. It’s normal for our minds to wander. When that happens, gently remind yourself to return to your breath. Some days are easier than others. That’s okay. It’s the consistency of the practice that moves the needle and helps create calm.
3. Add health-promoting foods (Nourish). If you really want to create calm, remember that our minds work best when they are well-nourished. Rather than focusing on restrictive diets, consider adopting a ‘what can I add’ mindset. What nutrient-dense foods can you incorporate into your diet that promote health? Remember to eat real food. A piece of fruit or handful of carrots is far more nutritious than any snack coming from a package.
4. Move. One of the best ways to calm your mind is to move your body. Any kind of movement will do. If a hardcore workout is your jam, go for it. But gentle movement is just as effective when we connect our mind to our body. Try to focus on each movement, and notice how your body feels. Think about moving stagnant energy out of your body to create space for more positive energy. 
5. Connect. We are still recovering from the impact of the pandemic and we need connection with others. Choose your tribe wisely. Surround yourself with people who motivate and inspire you to level up, but also bring you comfort and joy. And, more importantly, be that for others. We are better together.
6. Get a hold of your finances (Prosper). Taking control of your finances begins with awareness. Set aside a weekend to do a deep dive into your finances, so that you clearly understand where your money is going. You may even be inspired to set a budget and financial goals for 2023. This is a wonderful opportunity to focus on what you value, and to assess whether your spending habits are in alignment with those values.
7. Consistency moves the needle. New year’s resolutions often come with an all/nothing mentality and focus on strict discipline, which is difficult to sustain in the long run. The fact of the matter is that life happens, and we all get off track at some point. Rather than throwing in the towel, just get right back at it the next day, without judgment. By committing to less, we are able to do more on a consistent basis. 

Remember…Your history is not your destiny (credit Alan Cohen). With consistent practice, you can create calm in your life. Go slow, be gentle, and celebrate the small wins. Happy New Year!