Practicing Stillness: Finding Your Inner Calm
“You are worth the quiet moment. You are worth the deeper breath. You are worth the time it takes to slow down, be still, and rest.” – Morgan Harper Nichols
Do you ever find yourself trapped in a cycle of perpetual busyness, with days that are filled with a never-ending to-do list, leaving little room for quiet moments and space to simply be? The pressure to be constantly productive can become overwhelming, causing us to neglect our need for stillness and rest.
However, the importance of slowing down and taking time for ourselves cannot be overstated. This isn't just a modern notion; but a timeless principle often emphasized in various spiritual teachings. One such teaching comes from the Bible, where God repeatedly tells us to "Be Still."
Be Still and Know
In the Bible, Psalm 46:10 says, "Be still, and know that I am God." This simple yet profound directive is a reminder to pause amidst the chaos and to make time to reconnect with our inner selves and our faith. In these quiet moments that we can truly reflect, pray, and find peace. Being still allows us to listen to the whispers of our soul and the gentle guidance of the universe. It is a time that reminds us of who we are and that we belong to something much bigger than ourselves. We are a part of a greater whole and made for a purpose.
Throughout the Bible, we can find numerous examples of leaders and prophets taking time to be still and seek God. Even Jesus himself retreated to solitary places to pray and reflect. In the story of Elijah, it was not in the wind, earthquake, or fire that God spoke, but in a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:11-13). These stories remind me that stillness is not just a passive state but an active practice of tuning into the divine.
But how do we carve out these moments of stillness in a world that glorifies busyness? How do we honor our need for rest with our daily responsibilities?
Creating Space for Stillness
One way to cultivate stillness is by setting intentional boundaries. This might mean scheduling regular breaks throughout the day, setting aside time for meditation, breathing techniques, prayer, or even just unplugging from technology for a while. It's about making a conscious choice to prioritize our well-being over the endless demands of life.
Mindfulness practices can be incredibly effective in fostering stillness in your life. Try incorporating techniques such as:
Meditation: If you are new to the practice, begin with guided meditations. Apps like Headspace or Calm can provide structure and support.
Breathing Techniques: Techniques like equal breathing (inhale and exhale for the same count), box breathing (inhale, hold, exhale, hold for equal counts), or lion’s breathing (forceful exhale through the mouth) can help regulate stress.
Journaling: Spend a few minutes each day writing down your thoughts. This can help clear your mind and provide a space for reflection.
Another powerful way to find stillness is through the support of others. I've been blessed through my experience with Sholder, a place where you can talk with someone trained in holding space and quiet moments to allow you to work through your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. The Sholder community believes in the transformative power of being truly heard and supported.
In Sholder sessions, individuals are given the opportunity to explore their inner landscapes without judgment or interruption. This kind of support can be incredibly healing, allowing for a deeper connection with oneself and fostering a sense of inner peace. I love holding space for others, but I also love having a community of people around me that I can share with openly, knowing that they will hold space for me.
Embracing the Quiet
Quiet moments often need to be planned into our lives and serve as a radical act of self-care. It is an acknowledgment of our worth and a testament to our commitment to our well-being. When we allow ourselves the time to slow down, be still, and rest, we are honoring our need for balance and rejuvenation.
If you prefer to work on self-care alone, there are many ways to utilize quiet moments. Some prefer reading or journaling, while others like to fish or go for a walk. You can easily take this to the next level by adding in some breathing techniques for heart regulation and increased oxygen, eliciting a relaxation response. You can find the one that works best for you or vary your techniques daily.
Finding Your Peace with Support
Not everyone can find peace in their own quiet moments. If you find yourself bombarded with intrusive thoughts, or you enjoy the presence of another person to help talk you through thoughts or relaxation techniques – working with a Sholder may interest you. Seeking out a Sholder means having a friend there, in a safe and confidential space, ready to provide the emotional support we can all use, while helping you to navigate life’s challenges.
Sholder “believes that the big answers to every human life are found inside that person” and “while licensed mental health providers are very important when there is a medical need, most people who need support in navigating life’s ups and downs don’t require a clinical level of care.” Counselors are wonderful for providing advice, and life coaches are ready to help you achieve more. Sholders are different. They use active listening, powerful questions, and other tools to help you tap into your own inner wisdom. For more information, see the links below or contact me with questions.
It's time to find your quiet space. Take a deep breath. Close your eyes and just be. Remember, you are worth the quiet moment. You are worth the deeper breath. You are worth the time it takes to slow down, be still, and rest.
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