Every now and then, it’s easy to fall out of the practice of being present with ourselves. We live in a constantly changing world with distractions all around us. Creating and breaking routine is unfortunately easy considering the quick pace of life. If you find yourself feeling disconnected from a part of you, or like you need to check back in with yourself, here are some ways you can do just that:

Practice Mindfulness

What is mindfulness? This word has gained significant popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Mindfulness is loosely defined as being present or conscious. While that might sound simple, consider how many times a day you sit in the very moment you are in. Our brains are incredible engines that are constantly working on overdrive to anticipate, react, and move forward. But a mindfulness practice allows you to clear your head of what is to come, and bring you back into the body you are currently in. Practicing mindfulness can look different for everyone!

-Journaling: Journaling is a wonderful way to begin getting mindful. When you journal, try asking yourself the question, “Where am I now?” Let your brain interpret that how it wants. You can talk about where you are physically, where your head is, or where your heart is. The list goes on, but it helps to force you to become aware of your own being again.

-Meditation: Another incredible tool for becoming more mindful is meditation. Meditation has existed for thousands of years, and millions of people practice it in order to find peace. Meditation can be difficult for many because it requires so much practice, so don’t feel discouraged. Tuning into your mind and forcing yourself to stay in one moment is challenging! But practicing shutting out distraction thoughts can help you meet yourself where you are, and bring you clarity when you need it.

Create a Simple Routine

Oftentimes, we create extensive, elaborate routines that just aren’t sustainable. Experts know that success doesn’t happen overnight. Small changes to build a lasting routine make all the difference. Start your day with one daily task that you make non-negotiable. Maybe that’s writing in your journal for five minutes, or maybe it’s repeating affirmations while getting ready for the day. The more comfortable you get, the more tasks you can begin to add on to create your perfectly-tailored routine.

Self-Care

Develop a relationship with yourself through self-care practices. When people think of self-care, they often think of the glamorous-looking bubble baths, or doing a face mask before bed. While that can be a form of self-care, there are so many more ways to go about it. Self-care can actually look like having a hard conversation with a friend or partner, and it can look like saying no to plans that interfere with your goals. By practicing self-care, you cultivate a loving and respectful relationship with yourself.

We know that being present with yourself can feel intimidating. Start small! These are all effective ways of learning about yourself and getting comfortable with your own thoughts, but if you feel you need more professional help, contact Sage Family Counseling. At Sage, we offer multiple types of counseling to help guide you to a place of peace within yourself.