During my not-so-great moments (ie. meltdowns), it wasn’t pretty. And you know what? It still happens from time to time! But, much less because I practicing how to be more present helped me find that stillness when my overwhelmed brain runs amok with all kinds of thoughts.

Years ago, I went through a series of personal & professional life challenges. Though most would describe me as an upbeat and down-to-earth gal…deep down, I was miserable. I tried everything but kept feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and hopeless. In the midst of anxiety, anger and bouts of depression, I kept changing jobs, moving locations…yet nothing seemed to work.

At the same time, I noticed how others were able to be so resilient as they worked through their own struggles. I began a quest to observe and learn from hundreds of inspiring women with amazing comeback stories. With the help of supportive friends, mentors and family members, I kept an open mind to help me see each day with a silver lining.

During yoga and Reiki training, I learned effective techniques on how to reduce stress on a mental, physical, emotional, and energetic level. I devoured motivational books, inspirational podcasts, and filled journals with notes from psychology journals and moving testimonials.

Each time I applied what I learned, I noticed that I started getting my bounce back faster whenever life threw another curve ball! With an open mind, I figured out what worked and tossed out what didn’t.

The following strategies have been useful for me when getting through some extremely stressful days, whether it was at the office or at home. With time, I was then able to see more and more silver linings throughout my day.

The more you practice how to be more present, the easier it becomes and you’ll gradually start to notice a greater sense of peace too!

5 Simple Ways To Be More Present

1. Take a breath: Notice your breath when you inhale and exhale.

2. Consider what you are doing now: Where are your thoughts? Emotions? Sense of time? Are you rushed or relaxed?

3. Become a witness: Have awareness of what you are doing.

4. Let the rest go: Whatever is not there in that moment, just let go.

5. Come back to the breath: Whether it’s distractions or scattered thoughts, simply come back to the breath.

Can you start the day off by taking a moment to be present? How about incorporating it into your morning routine? How about during your commute?

I hope this helps you achieve more peace and balance in your life and incorporate energy work when you tackle your biggest frustrations.