A busy mind can feel like a room full of buzzing bees that just won’t settle. Whether it’s worrying about tomorrow or replaying moments from earlier in the day, learning how to quiet your mind down can bring a sense of relief. It’s important that you learn how to quiet your mind so that you are able to function as a regular human being and not somebody who’s currently constantly on edge. Let’s take a look at how you can quiet down your mind and make yourself feel good.
Put together a wind-down ritual.
This is a signal to your brain that it’s OK to relax, and it’s something easy to start with. Some people like to sip herbal tea, they dim the lights, or they even use easy-to-take THC capsules as part of their routine. But the key is to be consistent with it. No matter how you decide. When you repeat the same calming action each day, your mind begins to associate it with slowing down. It’s like training your brain to recognise that it’s time to rest.
Focus on your breathing.
It sounds too simple, but it does work. Inhaling slowly through your nose for four seconds, holding for four seconds, and then exhaling gently through your mouth for four seconds. It’s called box breathing. Do this a few times and you’ll notice how your body responds. Your shoulders might drop, your jaw might unclench, and your thoughts may begin to soften. Breathing like this gives your mind something steady to hold onto and gives you a moment to clear it.
Brain dump onto paper.
It’s a helpful trick, but sometimes brain dumping your thoughts onto paper can get them out of your mind, out of your hand, and onto something tangible. If your mind is racing, grab a notebook and write down everything that’s bouncing around in your head. It doesn’t need structure or neatness, just right onto the page in any order that makes sense. Once those thoughts are out in the open, they often feel less overwhelming. You’re clearing clutter from a crowded desk, except that the clutter is your thoughts and the desk is your head.
Invest in some activities.
We don’t just mean financially, but with your attitude and your effort. Shifting your focus through light, mindful activities like soothing, colouring, knitting or even tidying up can help you to anchor your attention and give your mind a break from constant thinking. Plus, there is a small sense of accomplishment that does come with that, so that’s a double bonus.
Go outside for a walk.
A short walk, even just around the block, can help you to reset your thoughts. You’ll notice the sounds of the air outside, the colours around you and the difference in temperature. Once you focus your surroundings, your mind naturally pulls away from internal noise and settles into the present.
You need to be kind to yourself when the mind isn’t going to quiet right away. It’s normal for thoughts to come and go. Instead of fighting them, try to observe them like clouds passing against the sky.
