I’m surprised I hyped myself up last Wednesday, saying I’ll share my #1 tip for finding peace this week.
The good news and reality is that there are actually many, many tools and tips for finding peace.
But it’s nice to boil down all the advice and turn to a reliable go to, especially if we’re busy, stressed, or confused.
Get Present
What? That’s what you said last week, Juniper!
And again, with so much ick happening now, to put it mildly - why! Why be present? I have an entire Substack article answering that, so here the quick answer is: Peace
Becoming fully aware of something in the present moment opens the doors of peace. And yes, that something can actually be pleasant.
But the best part? You don’t have to get present alone.
Remember, peace is always present, like the stones. But sometimes turbulent waves make it hard to see/remember the stones are still there.
Find an Anchor
This week, you don’t even have to practice or fully understand what “get present” means.
Instead, we’re going to do some easy prep to set you up for success over the course of the year. (3-4 min of thinking)
I recommend coming up with a list of “peace allies” - places, people, and pets you genuinely enjoy spending time with. And are there healthy, off-screen activities you like but sometimes (often?) don’t do cause. . . ?
Start broad and big with an open-minded brainstorm:
What are some nearby places where you feel good, or even just a little bit better, naturally? Any places you can let down your guard, even just a little?
Who do you feel good spending time with?
Are there any new or old hobbies/activities that you genuinely enjoy?
List all that comes to mind, and then notice how that list affects you. Do any thoughts or feelings or maybe questions bubble up when you look at your list?
In upcoming weeks, we’ll talk more about how to use that list, and I’m sure just by creating it, you’ll get ideas of where/who can be a friend on your path to peace.
Thanks for some of your precious time and attention today. And if you want to share some items on your list or ask any questions, just hit reply.
This email was sent from Missoula, Montana and includes photos from Yellowstone and Glacier so . . .
Thank you to the First Nations of what is now called Western Montana: the Bitterroot Séliš (Salish), the Ql̓ispé (Kalispel), and the Ksanka (Kootenai) - you can read more about all 3 nations on their website.
I also want to give thanks to the Amskapi Piikani (Blackfeet) and the Apsáalooke (Crow) First Nations because I’ve been to and enjoyed their traditional homelands in recent years. Many thanks for your hospitality.
