Has your serenity taken a heavy hit over the past few years?
You are not alone. Everyone’s serenity has been affected by the pandemic, by geo-political events, and social unrest. We are in complicated times! But, it is imperative to take care of ourselves, especially for us people in recovery. So, let’s begin with definitions.
Serenity definition means calm despite the storms while peace means a lack of conflict
Serenity is calm, and we all need it right now; especially with the great need to de-stress during 2020. This year has been full of seemingly more downs than ups, starting with COVID-19. With the upcoming election, it’s important for you focus on working toward serenity and de-stressing your life.
Do you confuse serenity with peace? Serenity meaning is different from the meaning of peace. Peace is the concept of harmony and the absence of hostility. Peace is a lack of conflict and freedom from fear of violence. We don’t have peace right now. Serenity, on the other hand, is the state of being calm and tranquil no matter what is happening around us.
Serenity is always the calm that can save us
But how does serenity work when we are buffeted by chaos, loss of control, fear, bullying … all the manifestations of current events? It is hard to feel centered when you’re surrounded by so many trials.
To me the word “serenity” sounds magical. In fact, it sounds so mystical that it almost feels unattainable — especially during times such as the above mentioned. If you are a recovering addict or suffering grief from the loss of a loved one, you hear the word a lot. How does it help us? Below is the serenity prayer and for many people it is a form of simple mediation, or centering that helps develop perspective and balance. It is a formula for calm through awareness, acceptance, and action.
Serenity Prayer
God Give me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference
We can achieve serenity no matter what religion we have or mental health program we follow. Simply, we can all find serenity and balance by adding 5 easy habits into our daily routine.
Be kind to others. Kindness goes a long way. It’s incredible how a positive exchange between human beings can brighten a day. Esteemable acts are great too (doing something for someone else in secret) and help nurture humility. Being helpful, building others up, and having grace will bring unlimited benefits internally and externally.
Feel grateful. This is one of my favorites. Acknowledging the blessings in our lives will help us reframe our thinking and find centeredness. One way to do this is going over a mental inventory as soon as you wake up or when you’re waiting to fall asleep. I like to share this list with my Higher Power. Some prefer a tangible list by keeping a diary or sharing their items in a message with a friend or support network. Consider all the gifts you have in your life: family, sobriety, job, a roof over your head, paid bills, etc. Think about the good things that happen in day-to-day life such as safely making the drive home from the grocery store or getting out of bed healthy. There are so many things to be grateful for that we take for granted. Enjoy our gratitude quotes
Take care of your basic needs. Get enough sleep, drink plenty of water, and eat three meals a day. It sounds simple, but how many of us actually do this? I’m guilty of not. We all know how being hangry can affect our thought processes. Keeping our primal physical needs in check will keep out bodies and minds healthy and clear. 100 Tips for Growing Up are easy steps to get you there.
Unclutter you home. There is so much truth to this! A disorderly living environment is a sign of a cluttered or unstable mind. Keeping a clean and organized home promotes a more peaceful well-being. Walking into your home should be a relief; your safe space. I guarantee you will find satisfaction in following suit.
Meditate. Meditation can be overcomplicated by many. This practice can be very formal or as lax as you want it. Take ten minutes and put on a guided sleep meditation. Even sleeping peacefully in silence is a solid way to clear your mind. Make the choice to give your mind a break and enjoy a mental vacation.
Establishing balance can feel like the pursuit of happiness — a constant chase and what is it really? I feel that as soon as I’ve achieved balance that I am blessed with a new opportunity or responsibility that changes up the game again. The bottom line is that life is a balancing act.
Life is very much a balancing act, and we are always just a step away from a fall. We are constantly trying to move forward with our purpose, to achieve our goals, all the while trying to keep in balance the various elements of our lives.
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Balance and serenity go hand in hand. Take a look at your life now — the first step is making a conscience decision to live a calm, balanced life. In addition to the suggestions for achieving a more serene life, practice time management, set goals, and take a daily inventory. It’s almost like uncluttering your home; unclutter your life and find balance.
Finding serenity and staying balanced during chaotic times is paramount. It is the key to sanity and living a tranquil existence. Resetting yourself this way with be a great help in getting through the madness in today’s world. Now, take a moment to sit back and up straight, close your eyes, take a deep breath in through your nose, and let it out your mouth. You are on your way.
