Do you admire people who just seem to sail through life like they are floating on marshmallow clouds and rainbows? You know the kind we are talking about.

In this crazy world of fast-paced everything, it seems like there are more tasks than there are hours to complete them. It's no wonder most of us are walking around anxious, stressed and overwhelmed. Is there a secret to becoming one of these uber “zen” types of people? Maybe not, but we do have 8 tips on how you can relax your mind, improve your mood and just become a little more chill.

Meditation

You knew it was going to be on the list, so let’s go ahead and get it out of the way early. Meditation is a state of focus that incorporates the synchrony of both the body and mind. In general terms, basic mediation should help to clear and quiet overactive thoughts. Focusing on the breath and recognizing when the mind has wandered can subconsciously improve focus in other areas of life. This allows the brain to feel less-cluttered and overwhelmed while encouraging a return to conscious breathing during stressful situations.

Natural Light

A little sunlight can go a long way. Daily exposure to natural lighting is linked to positive mood, energy, better sleep and overall wellbeing. Studies have proven over and over, that natural light helps the body stick closer to its circadian rhythm and that workplaces have a much higher staff morale when employees have exposure to natural light, such as windows. Could opening the blinds be the difference between a good day and bad day? Creating a chill environment seems like a nice way to up the zen factor.

Zen Seasoning

The therapeutic properties of herbs and spices have been noted in cultures across the globe. Several are known for their antidepressant and mood-boosting abilities. Some of the most notable are saffron, cinnamon, turmeric, rosemary, thyme, and cilantro. Some have been said to correct imbalances in specific chakras. Chill out by spicing it up!

CBD Oil

Sometimes you just feel a little off. CBD may be able to help with that. As a powerful antioxidant, CBD oil like Receptra Naturals has the ability to attack free-radicals and reduce inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation has been identified as a common pathway for many stress-related issues. CBD interacts with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system to restore balance (homeostasis). A balanced body is much more likely to find its happy place, than an unbalanced one!

Laugh

Do you ever feel horribly depressed, irritated or angry after laughing hysterically? No, you don’t. That’s not how it works. Laughter is one of the best ways to decrease stress hormones like cortisol while triggering the release of mood-boosting endorphins. Laughter provides a physical and emotional release and a bit of an internal workout for your organs. Who doesn’t feel better after a nice workout? There is a clear association between the ability to find humor in tough situations and a person's degree of happiness.

Drink Tea

There is something about a good cup of tea that just makes you want to breathe deep and smile, even on the blah days. Part of this feeling is made possible by theanine, the amino acid found in many delicious teas. Theanine interacts with the happy chemicals in the brain, giving you an extra bump of joy with every sip. Some people find that just the act of making a cup of tea provides relaxation. A few of the top teas to help you zen out are valerian, yerba mate, lavender, peppermint, green tea, chai, and ginger. If you are looking to chill out right before bed, HERE is a great sleep tea recipe. 

Essential Oils

Aromatherapy is not a new concept, though essential oils have spiked in popularity over the last several years. Essential oils can be used by inhaling their scent, applying them topically or ingesting small amounts. The terpenes in essential oils have a lot to do with their zen qualities. Some scents known to help you chill out include lavender, jasmine, eucalyptus, bergamot, and sage. They also smell awesome and walking into a room that smells awesome generally causes a positive response!

Yoga

Yes, there are some unhappy yogis out there. No one is perfect, but that’s not you. Yoga is generally considered a form of active meditation and it is important to stay active. You can take all the CBD you want, in the sunshine while laughing, but if your body doesn’t feel good it is hard to be truly zen. It is important to stretch daily and get your blood flowing. Yoga is a great option to help with focus and get a bit of a sweat happening (or a lot of sweat if you do hot yoga). It is also one of those activities that fit well at any point during the day. Before work, in the middle of the day, or after work are all great times to roll out the yoga mat, move around a bit and chill.

Finding What Makes You Chill Without a Pill

There are some great natural options to help you reduce stress, boost energy and increase overall well-being. The biggest thing to remember is that not everyone is the same. If you don’t like the taste of tea, stop forcing it down your throat. If yoga drives you crazy, go for a run. If you don’t like to laugh . . . well, you may need to talk to your therapist about that one. The point is, do what makes you happy. That is where you will find your zen place.