Posted: 05/01/2014 8:51 am EDT Updated: 05/01/2014 8:59 am EDT Print ArticleMEDITATE
The stress and strain of constantly being connected can sometimes take your life -- and your well-being -- off course. GPS For The Soul can help you find your way back to balance.
GPS Guides are our way of showing you what has relieved others' stress in the hopes that you will be able to identify solutions that work for you. We all have de-stressing "secret weapons" that we pull out in times of tension or anxiety, whether they be photos that relax us or make us smile, songs that bring us back to our heart, quotes or poems that create a feeling of harmony, or meditative exercises that help us find a sense of silence and calm. We encourage you to look at the GPS Guide below, visit our other GPS Guides here, and share with us your own personal tips for finding peace, balance and tranquility.
It's a well-known fact that we can all benefit from a little meditation. Research has proven that the practice can help reduce our blood pressure, keep stress at bay and boost our immune system. But just because there's science behind it doesn't mean it's always easy to fit in a little meditation. If you're looking to create some calm in your day but finding it tricky to actually meditate, take a look at some of the suggestions below. Tell us in the comments: How to do you find zen when you have trouble meditating?
Look on the bright side
"Think positive and explore/enjoy other parts of life." -- Sopida Tongsopit
Go on a walk
According to a 2013 UK study, taking a walk through nature may help put the brain in a meditative state.
Set up a relaxing atmosphere
"Music, candles and darkness." -- @tamaralajoy
Be with friends and family
A 2011 study found that being around loved ones helps reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the body.
Sit in silence
Experts agree that sitting in a few moments of silence can help cultivate calm, make you more thoughtful and even increase your focus.
If all else fails, ask for a little help
"I find using guided meditations are really helpful." -- Jane Meyers