5 Activities To Calm Your Mind

We’ve all had periods of time in our lives when things can be overwhelming or we have so much to think about and cope with that we end up not being able to focus on anything. Finding ways to give yourself a mental break and let your mind rest and become a little more ordered can be really hard.

So that’s why I’ve compiled this list of ways to take the focus off your worries and let your brain reset so that you’re in a better frame of mind to tackle whatever it is you’re working through. I’m not an expert, and none of these things will cure or fix any problems you’re currently dealing with, but they may just give you the mental space needed to see a path forward.

I’ve used the following activities to help me find a bit of subjective clarity during some really difficult times recently; my my hope is that this spreads some mindfulness and love to anyone going through a tough time …

Some of the ideas below may require a level of mobility or dexterity that not everyone will have so here is a link to a site that has some craft therapy ideas for people living with disabilities that may help relax a stressed mind. 

Origami

This ancient Japanese paper-folding art was first used by Buddist monks as part of their ceremonies. As an art form, it is accessible for most people and can be a way to take some time out to focus on creating something intricate and beautiful. Each fold has to be purposeful so it may give your mind a chance to focus on something unconnected to what is going on that is causing you stress/anxiety.

Find some origami ideas and templates, here.

Organize Something

This might not be for everyone, but if you need to take your mind off something for a while, pick a cupboard or area of the house and organize/sort/tidy it. It can help relieve some stress, especially if you’re feeling that things are out of your control, as you can create some kind of order and direct your thoughts into a more organizational mindset.

For some decluttering and home organization tips, click here.

Colouring Books

Adult colouring books are now readily available and are a simple way to take attention away from any present stresses and focus on a simple activity that helps you feel calmer and more relaxed. It can give you a bit of time to reset which is always useful in more difficult times.

Find some printables here or buy a book from your local bookstore.

Puzzles

Like the adult colouring-in, completing a puzzle can focus your attention away from yourself for a while. It can allow your thoughts to be directed to something that you can solve and that will give you a sense of success. Having a puzzle app downloaded on your phone or carrying a puzzle book with you means you can use this stress-busting activity on the go.

Friendship Bracelets

You don’t need to wear them or make them for a friend to get the benefits of just having a few moments to yourself to create something that can help calm and focus your mind away from the stresses of your day. They only require thread and a safety pin to make and can be taken with you and made on the go. You can, of course, make them for someone and give them as a gift — a nice way to generate some positive reciprocity.

Find some tutorials for friendship bracelets here.

Life can be hectic, stressful, tiresome, anxiety-inducing and a whole bunch of other things that can make us feel battered and bruised. It’s so important to take some time, even if it is only for 5 to 10 minutes a day — which all of the activities above can be done in — to allow ourselves to calm our minds and mentally rest.

What do you do to reset your mind? What activities do you do that help you feel calmer and ease your stress?

---

Further Info:

If you or someone you know needs extra support, check out the resources on the National Institute of Mental Health (the U.S. only) or Global Mental Health Resources (international).

Coping With Stress – HealthLine

The Ultimate List of Sensory Products For Adults – Harkla