Sometimes when you just need a bit of peace, the most eclectic set of activities can be the ones that are soothing and therapeutic.  They all involve a certain amount of solitude, but have little else in common.  Some require heavy thinking whereas others let your mind wander; some are more physically demanding while others are more mentally-challenging.

Take gardening, for example.  It’s one of those activities that doesn’t require much thinking, but can be more physical as you forge a bond with nature.  You can escape from the harsh noises in our lives and get a little closer to the life around you.  It’s refreshing because it’s a change from the typical daily grind and it gives our eyes a rest from the artificial lights that tend to surround us.  Growing up in the Midwest, I particularly love wandering around gardens or getting a little dirty because of the connection I get with Mother Nature.  It’s fascinating to observe some of the plants that surround us, since most of us barely glance at them as we rush by.  Taking the time to breath in the fresh air being produced by the plants, discovering some of the insects that cohabit with them, and really getting to understand where we came from is a great way to de-stress.

Arts and crafts are also a great way to let yourself go mentally (for the most part).  Once you learn the basic pattern or technique to your chosen activity, you quickly learn to automate most of the process.  You are then free to express yourself creatively through the designs that you make on the surface of your choice, whether it’s a piece of cloth or a block of wood.  When your hands are busy, your mind is free to wander with fewer inhibitions and conversations can flow more readily.  Even when you’re not speaking, it’s not an awkward silence because everyone is focused on the task at hand.  What a lovely way to pass the time by with friends, family, or even complete strangers.

Another thing I find really comforting is studying in a library.  When you enter a place like that, there’s a certain level of silence with just whispers of sound coming from the movements of others studying alongside you.  It’s kind of nice to be in such an academic setting, with everyone around you working so hard that it helps you focus too.  I find that I need to be at peace to a certain extent before I have the patience to sit down and pore over my work diligently.  The good thing is, you can really get on a roll and get a lot done when your focus is just right!

On the opposite end, when you get into the right rhythm for a sport, it’s truly a marvelous feeling.  Runner’s high isn’t something restricted only to that sport; in fact, I’d venture to say each athlete can reach a point where the physical exertion of their body is in such peace and harmony that they’ve reached that state of flow.  When you’ve hit the ball just right, moved your body perfectly, and attained something you never had before, there’s not much that can beat that feeling.  The feeling that it’s just right.

Finally, I’ve always found grocery shopping to be a pleasing outing.  Food always makes me happy and it’s the one thing that I won’t fuss over prices for.  I like to buy what I want to eat when I want it.  So, purchasing food is great for me because it means I get to satisfy my taste buds and stomach with whatever catches my eye.  Since I don’t often go with a long list and usually only have an item or two I intend to get for sure, it’s a leisurely stroll through the aisles for me as I peruse the choices and reach out to whatever captures my fancy.

So, what’s the activity that gives you your peace of mind?

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