Hi Friends!
It is Day 22 of the 64-day Season for Peace and Nonviolence. I was invited by the Center for Spiritual Living in Dallas to write daily messages for this global campaign to spread peace. You can read the daily messages on my facebook page. From my perspective, the purpose of this campaign is to bring the subject of peace to our daily awareness and to inspire us to create more peace in our lives.
I would love to tell you that I have been a saintly example of peace during this campaign, but I haven’t. Last week especially, I had a couple of days where everything irritated me. Have you ever had those days? However, I have been more conscious of my not-so-peaceful times and have tried to pinpoint what daily things I can do to feel more peaceful in my life. I’ve found three things to be key for me in order to create a more peaceful experience.
1. Making daily time for meditation.
If I haven’t meditated for a few days, I can tell. I start feeling cranky, and little stumbling blocks feel like hopeless situations. I meditate in the morning, and my Guides have told me that 20 minutes is a good length of time for me right now. I set my alarm for 20 minutes, and then I just sit. During this time, I get messages, I get inspiration, and I feel connected to my Spirit. Of course, there are times when nothing happens and I don’t get messages, but I always feel more peaceful. When I meditate in the morning, my thinking is clearer throughout the day, I remain calm no matter what is going on in my life, and I feel hopeful and positive. If you don’t already have a daily meditation practice, I highly recommend starting one. It doesn’t have to be 20 minutes. It could be 5. It could be 30. Do whatever feels right to you, and choose a time you know you can commit to each day. Check out my articles about meditation to help you get started.
2. Making time for myself.
It’s when life gets busy and I feel like there is not enough time for ME that I stop feeling peaceful. This lack of time is always an illusion. This is what caused my cranky days last week. I was having fun with my various projects and enjoying my work, but then I stopped making time for myself. To create more peace in your life, make sure you are taking time to just take care of you. Do something fun, pamper yourself, and allow yourself to set aside all other concerns during that time. You are worth making time for.
3. Getting enough sleep.
I’ve found that having a set sleeping schedule is so beneficial. In order to calm my mind and get ready for sleep, I turn off my computer/TV an hour before bedtime. I use this time for gentle or introspective activities, like getting ready for bed, sewing/painting/doing something crafty, talking with my honey, etc. When it’s time to fall asleep, I lead myself through a progressive relaxation meditation. I focus on each part of my body, beginning with my feet, and send loving, relaxing energy to it. If you have difficulty falling asleep at night, try these tips to see if they help you, too.
If you are wanting to feel more peace in your life, I encourage you to start by including daily meditation, personal nurturing time, and enough sleep into your schedule.
What do you find vital to experiencing peace in your daily life?
I hope you’ll join me for the rest of the Season for Peace and Nonviolence on my facebook page.
Sending you lots of love and peace,
Melanie Jade 
