Relaxed Black woman resting in a park, eyes closed, head in palm

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by constant distractions and a noisy mind. This mental clutter can lead to stress, anxiety, and even physical health issues.

Fortunately, mindfulness practices offer a powerful way to cultivate inner peace and improve overall well-being. The American Psychological Association highlights that mindfulness can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, aid in pain management and addiction recovery, and potentially boost the immune system.

Quiet Your Mind

Try these seven simple mindfulness practices to quiet your mind and calm your body:  

1. Stop To Rest

Notice what you see, hear, and feel in the moment you pause in stillness. Listen to this mindful moment meditation to soak in the beauty around you.

2. Relax with Your Breath

Take a deep breath and focus on your exhalation, feeling yourself letting go as you breathe out. Follow along with this 7-11 breathing practice.

3. Visual Awareness

Focus on something interesting or beautiful you see nearby and take a moment to notice its details. Follow along with this grounding meditation that engages your 5 senses.

4. Listen to Your Surroundings

Bring your attention to the sounds you hear and pause to listen carefully, focusing on each sound separately. Watch this guided meditation to tune into your surroundings and notice the sounds around you.

5. Check-In with Your Body

Bring your attention into your body and feel the sensations in each area. Release any tension or tightness and let relaxation spread. Watch this 10-minute guided chair yoga sequence to invigorate energy into the body.

6. Keep the Good Things in Mind

Imagine someone or something you love and feel the joy and serenity it brings to your life. Check out this journal prompt to help you reflect on moments of joy.

7. Focus on Gratitude

Think about someone or something you’re grateful for and reflect on how it enriches your life. Start your mornings with a virtual Gratitude Meditation class.

Calm Your Body

Incorporating these mindfulness practices into your daily routine can significantly enhance your ability to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and resilience. Embrace mindfulness and experience the transformative power of inner peace.

Thank you to our content partners at Sharp HealthCare.

California Schools VEBA (CalVEBA) Mindfulness Resources

Explore a variety of mindfulness classes, both virtual and in-person, by visiting our calendar. Access on-demand mindfulness and meditation videos anytime in our video library.

To watch more videos on mindfulness and ways to manage stress, check out our YouTube Channel.