Find stillness and calm within yourself from "summary" of You Are Here by Thich Nhat Hanh

The practice of finding stillness and calm within yourself is essential for our well-being and happiness. In our fast-paced and busy world, it is easy to get caught up in the chaos and noise around us. However, by taking the time to pause, breathe, and come back to ourselves, we can cultivate a sense of peace and tranquility that is always available to us. One way to find stillness and calm within yourself is to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment with openness and curiosity. When we are mindful, we are fully engaged in whatever we are doing, whether it is eating, walking, or simply breathing. By bringing our awareness to the present moment, we can let go of worries about the past and anxieties about the future. Another way to find stillness and calm within yourself is to practice deep breathing. When we are stressed or overwhelmed, our breath tends to become shallow and rapid. By taking slow, deep breaths, we can signal to our body that it is safe to relax and unwind. Deep breathing can help to calm the nervous system and bring a sense of peace and clarity to our minds. It is also important to create a space for stillness and calm within our daily lives. This could be a designated meditation area in our home, a quiet corner in a park, or even just a few moments of silence in the midst of a busy day. By carving out time and space for stillness and calm, we can nourish our souls and replenish our spirits.

Finding stillness and calm within yourself is a practice that requires patience, persistence, and self-compassion. It is not always easy to quiet the mind and let go of distractions, but with time and practice, we can learn to cultivate a sense of inner peace that will sustain us through life's ups and downs. By finding stillness and calm within ourselves, we can tap into a wellspring of peace and joy that is always available to us, no matter what challenges we may face.