Looking for ways on how to recenter your mind? I have some ideas that may help you!
Some days are just too much! Too much thinking! And too many requirements. We’re exhausted before we begin.
There may be times in our lives that are incredibly stressful, and we must pursue recentering our minds daily.
Please see this earlier post for a practical way to become more self-aware.
https://www.singlemomoutwest.com/skills-for-single-moms/self-aware-as-a-single-mom/
Either way, here are some ideas to get you started!
Knit or crochet.
It’s interesting to me that past generations of women regularly knitted or crocheted.
Sure, there was probably more of a need, but I think it was more than that.
It kept their minds focused on something and kept their hands busy.
Knitting and crocheting require following a pattern and/or counting stitches. They’re excellent ways to distract yourself from worries or racing thoughts.
Take a hot bath to refocus and relax.
When things get too chaotic and stressful, this is an excellent choice.
Sometimes, we need to give ourselves a time out.
Hot water is soothing to the body and the mind.
Spending a few minutes in hot water helps you refocus and relax, giving you a few minutes alone.
Leather crafting is another idea that can recenter your mind.
Some may find that leather crafting is an alternative to regular crafting.
It takes a little more time and money, but once you have a few basic tools, you will be on your way to engaging in a unique hobby.
Making your belt, bookmark, or either item can be especially rewarding while providing a relaxing activity.
Walking in nature helps reset the mind.
Grabbing a pair of tennis shoes and heading outside is one of your best options.
Feeling the sun on your skin and a little breeze will do wonders to recenter yourself.
You may want to listen to music; here is a relaxing option.
Some may prefer to listen to nature sounds, which can be relaxing. Praise music is also a great option!
Learn a musical instrument.
Someday, I’m going to learn the violin.
I’ve never played any instrument well, but I’ve watched people who have. They seem to get lost in their music.
And I think that must be a magical place to be.
Learn to paint or other visual arts.
In college, I learn to paint. Well, good enough anyway. And I loved it! Water painting and acrylic. Focusing on something beautiful is a good way to recenter your mind.
Bob Ross’s The Joy of Painting is an excellent place to start!
Crystal art is another craft option.
Admittedly, I have not tried this. But I have heard that it is very relaxing!
Here is a YouTube video explaining what it is.
I am trying this tonight! It may not be for everyone, but this is possible for people who love to craft.
Name the Sensation.
I learned this technique when I worked with people in a residential mental health facility. It seemed to bring them down from intense emotions. And I noticed it worked on me, too!
You may want to try this while struggling to keep it together!
Name one of each.
- Something you can feel with your body right now. Possibly, the chair with the back of your knee.
- Something you can hear. Possibly, the dog snoring or a car passing by.
- Something you can see. Such as a coffee cup or pen nearby.
- Something you can taste—the beverage you are having or just had.
- Something you can smell- the lotion you just put on.
This may seem simple, but focusing on something you can sense is one way to recenter. And it works great with kids, too!
Watch a movie.
Preferably something funny or at least enjoyable. And, hey, make some popcorn while you’re at it!
When you stop moving around or working to focus on something enjoyable, you can return to problem-solving when you are done.
Sometimes, you need a break, and taking one is okay.
Breathe for a moment.
I’m unsure where I learned this, but if you can slow your physical being on the outside through breathing, your inside will feel calmer.
Take a few minutes to breathe calmly. You will feel the inside slow and return to a calmer place.
While doing this might feel inconvenient, it will help you recenter and feel more in control of your situation.
Recentering yourself is worth the effort.
When you are tired and overextended, taking the time to find balance and recenter is important.
I did not list a few things, including prayer, Bible reading, and talking to a friend. But these are so important as well!
