I do well under pressure and adversity.

I’ll start there. A big part of my passion for sharing calm lifestyle and calming content, including my own music and writing, is that I truly love exploring human conflicts and how different people cope through chaos. I love history, because humans have an inherent capacity for cruelty and chaos, and yet, you and I exist today due to the inherent capacity that our ancestors had for surviving and strategizing. For me, being calm is not about avoiding every possible conflict and pretending to meditate about fake happiness 24/7 to make social media posts. For me, being calm is a personal process of understanding how I’ve gotten through the worst times of my life and continue to identify that ability as one of my strengths. It is why I share so much on the topic. I know I’m good at getting through “it.” And “it” means many different things to different people.

In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and tranquility can be a challenge. However, maintaining a calm lifestyle is essential for our overall well-being. As adults, we often face multiple responsibilities, stressors, and demands that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and anxious – our version of chaos. To combat this, it’s crucial to prioritize activities that promote relaxation and inner peace – stay curious for different ideas that work for you. In this blog, we’ll explore the ten top ways I support a calm lifestyle for myself as an adult woman, mom, wife, musician, writer, educator, etc… I hope this empowers you to find balance and tranquility amidst your life’s chaos.

1. Mindfulness Meditation

Embracing mindfulness meditation is a powerful practice to foster calmness and reduce stress. By focusing on the present moment and observing thoughts without judgment, you can cultivate a sense of inner peace and self-awareness. Dedicate a few minutes each day to meditation, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable with the practice. Start with simple deep breaths, pranayama exercises, and don’t complicate it. For me, this is a daily habit for years and it is how I start and end my day, and it is also how I interrupt my day when chaos takes over. I believe spirituality is essential to explore, too, and I believe that God hears my daily prayers.

2. Regular Exercise

Physical activity is not only beneficial for your body but also for your mind. Engaging in regular exercise releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones that boost your mood and reduce stress. Whether it’s going for a walk, practicing yoga, or hitting the gym, finding an exercise routine that suits your preferences can significantly contribute to a calm lifestyle. I battle through a few significant injuries that flare up and make it hard to do high impact sports, but I love yoga, walking, and swimming.

3. Unplug from Technology

With the constant presence of technology, it’s challenging to disconnect from the digital world. However, spending time away from screens is essential for maintaining a calm and balanced life. Set aside designated periods each day to unplug from your devices, and instead, focus on activities that bring you joy and relaxation. In 2023, one of my new year resolutions was to streamline and minimize my social media activity. Each month, I’ve wasted less and less time on personal social media use. While I have no intention of going totally radio silent, I would much rather use my time for the “real” things and people in my life. No more virtual reality coping mechanisms here!

4. Prioritize Quality Sleep

Sleep is crucial for rejuvenating the body and mind. Ensure you get enough rest each night by creating a calming bedtime routine. Avoid stimulating activities before sleep, such as intense workouts or excessive screen time. Instead, opt for relaxing activities like reading a book or practicing gentle stretches to prepare your mind for a peaceful slumber. I do enjoy spending time with my family before bedtime, but I also massage my feet and do aromatherapy on a nightly basis.

5. Nourish Your Body with Healthy Food

A balanced diet plays a significant role in supporting a calm lifestyle. Avoid excessive caffeine, sugary foods, and processed meals that can cause mood fluctuations and jitters. Instead, opt for nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to maintain stable energy levels and a sense of well-being. Worry less about looking thin and focus more on being healthy, because the two things are not the same. Research essential vitamins and nutrients. Make it a fun game to eat in a well-rounded manner!

6. Create a Calming Environment

Your surroundings can have a profound impact on your mental state. Organize and declutter your living and working spaces to reduce feelings of chaos and promote a calm atmosphere. Incorporate elements like plants, natural light, and soothing colors to create a peaceful environment that fosters relaxation.

7. Practice Deep Breathing

Deep breathing exercises are simple yet effective techniques to manage stress and anxiety. When you feel overwhelmed, take a few minutes to focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly. This practice activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a sense of calmness.

8. Engage in Creative Outlets

Channeling your creativity through activities like painting, writing, or crafting can be highly therapeutic. Engaging in creative pursuits allows you to express yourself and immerse in the present moment, fostering a sense of calm and joy. For me, music has been my first love throughout my life and writing is also a fantastic outlet of expression in my human experience. Even if I wasn’t a creative artist myself, I would still love supporting museums and other artists in different mediums. For example, I love that I can go see Van Gogh’s Starry Night whenever I want, and that I get to share this with family and friends often.

9. Set Boundaries and Learn to Say No

This is a tough one! Learning to set boundaries and saying no when necessary is vital for your well-being. Overcommitting yourself can lead to increased stress and exhaustion. Prioritize your mental health by taking on only what you can handle and delegating tasks when possible. This can seem particularly overwhelming for adults who are parents and have the responsibility of an entire household of humans. It’s okay to say no.

10. Cultivate Gratitude and Positive Thinking

Focusing on gratitude and positive thinking can significantly impact your overall mindset and outlook on life. Each day, take a moment to reflect on things you are thankful for and shift your focus towards positivity. This practice can help you find peace and contentment, even during challenging times.

Incorporating these ten ideas into your daily routine may not replace mental health resources or therapy, if needed, but they can support a calm lifestyle and enhance your overall well-being. Remember that finding peace and tranquility is a journey, and it’s essential to be patient with yourself. By prioritizing self-care and embracing practices that promote relaxation, you can lead a more balanced and fulfilling life as an adult.

Helpful Links:

The Calm Principles music album:

The C.A.L.M. Principles book: