Looking for a method to calm your mind and achieve inner peace?

For so long, people have searched for methods to calm their chattering minds. Long before modern technology introduced new distractions into our lives, humans have chased after inner peace. If you’re looking for a method to quiet your mind and achieve inner peace, these four ancient techniques have proven effective even by today’s standards.

Meditation

• Practice a breathing meditation. Breathing meditation is a simple and effective method for calming your mind. Start by finding a comfortable and quiet place where you can sit and just observe your breath. With practice, you’ll be able to meditate longer periods or place your mind on your breath in any setting.

• Develop single-pointed concentration. Train your mind to rest upon an object of meditation… it could be a candle flame or a spoken mantra. Note any distracting thoughts but let go of the tendency to follow them. Bring your mind back to your chosen object.

• Learn to visualize. Select images that promote peace, happiness and serenity. Whatever feels right to you is good… perhaps you’d like to picture snow-capped mountains or sheep grazing in a meadow.

• Focus on positive thoughts. If your meditation is part of a spiritual practice, you can follow the prayers taught in your tradition. Alternatively, you can soothe your mind by repeating any affirmation or quote that is meaningful for you.

Use the Soothing Qualities of Water

• Take a bath. Many people all over the world have long appreciated the calming effects of water. A simple warm bath can soothe your nerves. Rest your head on a bath pillow and add some comforting scents like sandalwood or lavender. Turn the lights down low and play soft music.

• Surround yourself with the sound of water. Eat your lunch by a park fountain or install a solar device in your own backyard. You can find recordings of waterfalls online or get a CD with ocean sounds that you can play anywhere you go.

Get Into Nature

• Go for a walk. For some in certain parts of the world, it was common for people to go for long retreats into the wilderness. Even a short break can do wonders to restore your peace of mind. Visit your local park or take a quiet walk around your neighborhood. If you work indoors all week, use the weekend to explore scenic trails for biking and hiking.

• Cultivate a garden. Gardening is a great way to slow down and appreciate nature. Devote a section of your backyard to growing flowers and vegetables. If you live in an apartment setting, choose some potted plants that will flourish indoors or on a balcony, like certain types of palm trees and herbs.

• Spend time with animals. Spending time with animals is so therapeutic it’s even been proven to help people recover from surgery faster. Take your dog for a walk. Watch your cat at play. Sign up for horseback riding lessons.

Live in the Present Moment

• Put the past behind you. Dwelling on the past can make it difficult to feel at ease. If you’re thinking about past misfortunes, decide that you can and you will devote your energy to more constructive activities.

• Adopt a positive view towards the future. The future always carries some uncertainty. Focus on creating develops a better future and can allow you to patiently accept whatever outcomes arise.

• Enjoy the present moment. Give your full attention to what is happening now. Take advantage of the opportunities in front of you and take delight in the good things that surround you. Steer your mind towards wholesome thoughts and actions. Engage fully with the people who share your life.

Many ancient techniques work equally well today for achieving a calm and peaceful mind regardless of external circumstances.

Visit your local library or bookstore to discover more information about the healing powers of meditation. With these methods, you can create a welcoming environment for yourself and others and train your mind to enjoy greater peace.