Four Simple Ways to Experience Zen on a Daily Basis
At some point, everybody needs a time out. Thanks to the pressures of everyday life, most of us tend to neglect our own wellbeing as a result. Taking care of ourselves and doing things that make us happy and relaxed should be an integral part of our to-do lists. In case you think you don't have time for any activity of that sort, we present to you four simple ways with which you can prioritize your wellbeing, restore your balance, and experience zen on a daily basis.
Physical Activities and Mood
I'll start on Monday—How many times have you uttered this sentence? To implement a new habit into your everyday life is not always easy. It requires the two D's—determination and devotion. You need to set a goal and work towards it.
Ask yourself a question—Why do I want to work out?—To lose some weight? To feel stronger and healthier? Every answer you give is legitimate. But did you know that aside from benefits to your physical appearance, working out can have a positive impact on your mental health too? Any physical activity throughout the week can help you deal with daily stress and help towards achieving your personal state of zen. Here's how:
It helps fight anxiety and depression—It's scientifically proven that exercise decreases symptoms of both anxiety and depression. The benefits of working out are so significant, and even some doctors recommend trying some physical activity before turning to medications.
It decreases stress—Working out decreases levels of stress. Physical activity stimulates the body's sympathetic and central nervous system to communicate with one another, enhancing the body's ability to respond to stress.
It improves your quality of sleep—Exercise can help you get a good night’s sleep. Working out increases body temperature, which has a calming effect on your mind, and helps with falling asleep.
It boosts your brain—Studies have shown that cardiovascular exercise creates new brain cells and improves brain performance. Physical activity also boosts mental energy and creativity.
Roll Up Your Sleeves—It's Cleaning Time
Do people you know love house chores? Not so much, right? Most of us consider cleaning as an obligation. But what if we tell you that house choirs are not the problem. They can actually get you out of it.
If you are dealing with a stressful situation you wish to distance yourself from, focusing on house chores could be just the right kind of distraction you need. All you should do is to concentrate on what you are doing at the moment, whether it's washing the dishes, hanging out the washing, or ironing.
The formula is simple—in order to experience zen, you need to pay attention to every part of the process. Take, for example, hanging out the washing. Instead of doing it mechanically, focus on every detail—the weight of the clothes you are hanging, the water temperature, and the scent of the washing liquid. Additionally, you can focus on the types of items and colors involved in your arrangement of the same. Your goal should be to convert a ''mindless'' task into a mindful routine.
Gardening: An Easy Way to Create Your Zen Oasis
It can be argued that many people have alienated themselves from nature, and it's time we change that. Nature doesn't ask for much, but it gives plenty in return. The good news is that we don't have to go far away to connect with nature. We can use our balconies or backyards to create our green oases.
Having a garden comes with a lot of benefits. Among other things, gardening can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Spending time outdoors and taking care of plants decreases stress levels and makes you feel happy and relaxed. And while it requires a little bit of know-how and some elbow grease, gardening is not a complicated activity to pick up. You should invest a little time and effort to collect the necessary information about the plants you want to grow, learn about the different issues affecting the soil, and how to improve it. Should you find yourself short on information (and inspiration), don’t hesitate to contact your local garden center for any advice, as they are usually forthcoming.
Once you’ve got a plan in mind, the most important thing to remember is to enjoy the work ahead! Feel the texture of stones, earth, and grass. Take in the visual beauty of the plants and inhale their aromas. Try not to think about anything else except the moment you are in and your connection to all the natural elements that surround you.
The Art of Cooking
Last but not least—cooking. Spending time in the kitchen is not as monotonous as some may think. In contrast, those who like cooking can prove to you how exciting yet relaxing is to spend a couple of hours making food.
The benefits of cooking are numerous. Preparing meals incentives creativity, and it teaches us how to be patient and present. Cooking gives us the chance to explore and find out how we can combine different ingredients and spices. It can also help us learn how to change certain eating habits. For instance, if you are looking to consume less meat or include more vitamins and minerals on your daily menu, cooking can be one of the methods to help you realize this plan.