Everyday Calm: Relaxing Rituals for Busy People (7 page)

Take window-shopping to another level. After work, go for a stroll down your town’s main street. Let your mind unwind and soak up the sights and sounds of the neighborhood. Step by step, relax and breathe. To disengage your mind from work, notice the latest styles and colors in each shop window. Let the sights and sounds soothe your tension. Accomplish nothing but walking and window gazing. By the time you return home, you will be feeling renewed and ready for friends and family.

The teachings of Buddha are often referred to as the dharma, a term that can be translated as “truth.” The state of your desk or drawers reveals certain truths about your life. You can’t be calm if your surroundings reflect chaos. Inner order relies on every item being in its perfect place.

1. Open a drawer and see what’s inside.

2. Take out any items you don’t need and give them away.

3. Place each item for ease of use.

4. Use containers to organize the small stuff.

5. Notice how your drawer and your mind fall into order simultaneously.

Your goal is to keep all areas of your life in order, so one at a time, tackle all the drawers in your home.

When you’re in a hurry and your clothes just won’t dry, it’s easy to let impatience get the best of you. Instead, make the most of the time you have.

1. Pull up a chair in front of the dryer and get comfortable.

2. Close your eyes and focus on the tumbling of your clothes.

3. Let the rhythmic sound calm your mind.

4. Breathe in unison to each circling motion.

5. Imagine that you are at the beach, with the waves crashing ashore.

6. When buzzer sounds, end your meditation session.

7. Pull on your toasty warm clothes in comfort and serenity.

The week is short, and you have so much to do. For a new perspective, take the time to volunteer on a Saturday afternoon. Pick a Saturday to give half a day to others and you’ll feel fulfilled all week long. Make a date of it by bringing along friends and family. Search the Internet or the phone book to find the organization of your choice. And if you can’t spare time, share your money and expertise. All of us have so much to offer.

Caught in a parking-lot maze? Wondering where you parked your car? At first, the rows of seemingly identical vehicles can be overwhelming. Turn this moment into a walking meditation. Forget your hurry and bring your thoughts into focus. Take a deep breath and discover your car. Your car is waiting patiently for your return. Take time and enjoy the search!

When tension takes over, time spent with your faithful furry companion is a lesson in the good things in life. Let your animal instinct take over and unleash some fun. Your pets will teach
you
a few new tricks:

Use baby talk in public without fear of strange stares.

Take daily walking excursions to parks, mountains, and beaches.