by Alyssa Abel,
Contributing Author, Conscious Reminder
Are you struggling with chaotic feelings at the moment? Most of us are. The COVID-19 outbreak has been an unsettling event for the entire world, and nearly everyone feels scattered and adrift right now.
How can you cultivate inner peace during tumultuous times? While no one knows how long this crisis will last, you can focus on something you can control during uncertain moments — self-development. The following practices will soothe you and help you thrive despite the turmoil:
1. Adopt a Yoga Practice
Now is the ideal time to embrace this ancient form of mind-body exercise. You can find styles that work for anyone — whether you like gentle Yin yoga or more vigorous Ashtanga practice. Yoga unites deep breathing with movement, meaning it combines two proven techniques for busting stress.
If you have never done yoga before, don’t fret because studios have closed. You can find numerous free videos on YouTube to start your practice right in your living room.
2. Increase Your Knowledge and Skills
Did you lose your job due to the shutdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic? If so, one of the best ways to handle the economic uncertainty is to enhance your resume by adding a new skill. In today’s job market, reaching an educational plateau is something you want to avoid. Instead, employers want to see your dedication to continual learning.
However, this doesn’t mean you need to spend a bundle on another pricey degree. Sites such as Udemy offer courses in anything from WordPress to graphic design, often for less than $20 per class.
3. Learn to Cook Healthfully and Inexpensively
If money is tight, now is the perfect time to brush up on your cooking skills. You could save up to $832 per year by replacing one takeout meal with a home-cooked one per week. Use this time to experiment with unfamiliar flavors. For example, jicama adds a lively crunch to salads, but as a root vegetable, it lasts much longer than greens in the fridge.
4. Begin a New Exercise Routine
Have you wanted to get in shape forever? Right now, many popular fitness streaming apps are offering specials for people who want to learn how to self-develop through building muscle. It doesn’t matter if you try high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or something like cardio dance. You can find something to help you get your groove on — at home and for free!
5. Start a Small Garden
Gardening is a wholesome way to cultivate inner peace because it gets you out in the fresh air and in touch with the cycle of life. If your local nursery is closed, you can save the seeds from your vegetables and start them as seedlings indoors for later transplant. If you have children, you can get them involved in the project, too, and use it as an opportunity to teach biology at the same time.
6. Find Ways to Help Others
Right now, many people are frightened and desperate. Millions have lost their jobs and worry about how to feed their families. You can make a difference by donating non-perishable goods to your local food pantry if you have ample supplies.
Another charitable idea? Paper products remain in short supply in many areas. If you have enough ample stock to share, keep a roll or two in a plastic bag in your trunk. If you see someone at a store desperately scouring empty shelves, you can offer them what they need. They will appreciate your gesture.
7. Meditate
Finally, a terrific way to manage stress and find inner peace is through meditation. All you need is a space where you can sit quietly and focus on your breath. Detach from your thoughts and observe them neutrally. As they come and go, do not judge them. Merely return your focus to your breath. If you need additional assistance, you can find a ton of free meditation videos on YouTube to guide you through visualizations for manifesting success, managing anxiety, overcoming depression and more.
How to Handle Uncertainty and Find Inner Peace Through Self-Development
Right now, everyone must manage fear, uncertainty and challenging times. But by focusing inwards and making positive choices for self-development, you can find inner peace to expand outward.
About the Author: Alyssa Abel is a lifestyle writer with an interest in sustainability, student life and wellness. Read more of her work on her blog, Syllabusy.
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