Finding inner peace

Research has shown that heart attack survivors who have pets live longer. Even watching a tank of tropical fish may lower blood pressure, at least temporarily.

by Kathy Balland — 

Do you know someone who is living life in a way that is detrimental to their health? They may be using drugs, alcohol or some other form of artificial gratification to deal with their stress. Not only is this type of gratification temporary, the use of these substances can have a negative effect on an individual’s mental, emotional or physical well-being.

Instead, there are natural ways a person can tap into their own inner peace. The key is to find what brings that person a sense of joy and relaxation. One option is meditation. For others, it is as simple as being out in nature, finding a hobby they enjoy or spending time with their pet.

The act of meditation can involve simply sitting in a comfortable position, closing one’s eyes and clearing one’s mind. Or, one can focus on relaxing and taking deep breaths, and try counting down from five to one, moving into deeper levels of relaxation.

A good technique is to visualize descending in an elevator, relaxing more with each floor. When the elevator door opens, there is a peaceful garden where one can imagine relaxing for awhile before counting back up and feeling refreshed.

Going for a hike or a walk can help relieve stress and bring about a sense of peace. Studies have shown that greater amounts of physical activity are generally associated with reduced symptoms of depression. Bike riding and participation in other sports cannot only bring about a sense of joy, it can also help to shed excess weight. This can boost a person’s self-esteem, allowing them to feel a sense of accomplishment.

People who love animals may find inner peace by walking or playing with their pets. Research has shown that heart attack survivors who have pets live longer. Even watching a tank of tropical fish may lower blood pressure, at least temporarily.

Another hobby that involves animals is bird watching, which has been found to help relieve stress. Walking through a zoo can provide a combination of both exercise and enjoyment of the sights and sounds of the animals.

Taking time to breathe and relax through meditation or self-hypnosis can be a great way to find renewed quiet and calm. For some people, the answer is physical activity, getting out in nature, spending time with animals or perhaps finding a hobby they enjoy. These techniques can allow a person to relieve their stress and promote better mental and physical health. The end result is a sense of inner peace.

Kathy Balland is a certified hypnotherapist and a transformational life coach, who helps people to reach their goals through private sessions and with her CDs. 480-688-3924 or blissfulrenewal.com.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 26, Number 5, October/November 2007.