Our minds are extraordinary tools. They are problem-solving marvels that have propelled humanity to create everything from complex technology to life-enhancing innovations like gluten-free cupcakes. However, our minds often overreach in their quest for usefulness, conjuring problems where none exist. This can lead to states of anxiety, fear, anger, or worry, pulling us away from peace and clarity.

To restore balance, we need practices that quiet the mind, bringing us back to the present moment and reconnecting us with the core of our being—a source of boundless peace, joy, love, and abundance. This is the invaluable gift of spiritual practice. It serves as a bridge, helping us realign with our spirit when the mind has spun into a frenzy of emotions and stories.

Why a Routine Matters

A consistent spiritual practice is not just an occasional retreat from life’s chaos; it’s a foundation for a healthier body, mind, and spirit. Establishing a daily routine of spiritual practices is akin to giving your inner self the nourishment it needs to thrive. These practices ground us, clarify our thoughts, and strengthen our connection to what truly matters.

One of my spiritual mentors once advised me never to make a major life decision without committing to 30 days of daily practice beforehand. This wisdom has saved me from countless impulsive choices and allowed me to act with clarity and purpose. Spiritual practices create space for reflection and recalibration, making them indispensable for navigating life’s complexities.

Breathwork: A Gateway to Balance

Breathwork is a profoundly transformative spiritual practice, offering both immediate and long-term benefits. By focusing on the breath, we calm the mind, nourish the body, and connect with the spirit. Here are some powerful breathwork techniques to incorporate into your routine:

• Pranayama (One example of many is Alternate Nostril Breathing): This ancient practice balances the nervous system and harmonizes energy flows. To practice, sit comfortably, close one nostril with your thumb, inhale through the other nostril, then switch nostrils for the exhale. Repeat for 5-10 minutes for a profound sense of calm and clarity. That is a brief description but if you would like to know more, YouTube is a great place to find guided pranayama practices. Or please get in touch with me and I will be happy to direct you to other sources and I can share what I have already stumbled upon.
• Box Breathing: Used by elite athletes and meditators alike, this technique is simple yet highly effective. Inhale for a count of five, hold the breath for five, exhale for five, and hold again for five. Repeat for several cycles to center yourself and reduce stress. I can sometimes spend up to 40 minutes doing this and the results are amazing.
• Breath Holds and Retentions: After a deep inhale, hold your breath for a few seconds before exhaling fully. This practice enhances lung capacity, oxygenates the body, and creates a heightened sense of awareness. Then fully exhale and retain your breath. Studies have found that  this can positively impact inflammation, which may be important for autoimmune conditions. I do 10 to 15 of these in the morning.
• Circular Breathing: This involves continuous, rhythmic breathing without pausing between the inhale and exhale. It’s excellent for releasing stored emotions and connecting with your deeper self. Find a breathwork session near you to really go deep in a long session. So much can happen in 90 minutes that can leave you feeling brand new.

Other Spiritual Practices to Enrich Your Routine

In addition to breathwork, consider integrating these time-honored practices into your daily life:

1. Meditation: Whether in silence or guided, meditation helps quiet the mental chatter and cultivates a state of inner stillness. A simple method is to focus on a grounding word like “love” or “peace” during your inhale and exhale. When I started, I would play meditation music and set an alarm for 5 minutes. every day I added 1 minute on. After 1 month I was up to 35 minutes. I don’t use an alarm anymore and can easily sit for up to 1 hour in peace. I never thought I would get there when I first started.
2. Gratitude Practice: Spend five minutes writing down everything you’re grateful for, from cherished relationships to simple pleasures like a warm cup of tea or cacao. Gratitude shifts your mindset from scarcity to abundance. Seriously, its such a simple practice. You grab a pen, bit of paper or journal if you have one, and jot down a few things you’re thankful for. Doesn’t get easier really.
3. Journaling: Offload mental clutter by writing down your thoughts without judgment. This practice brings clarity and lightness to your day. It doesn’t have to be an essay. You can make a bullet point list and just offload. Get ideas out of you head, good and bad, or just write about how you feel. 
4. Loving-Kindness Meditation: Focus on sending goodwill and compassion to yourself and others. Visualize your love expanding outward to include all beings. I always start with my son, my family, friends etc. and go from there. Just wish them a good and happy day. Its all energy, they will receive it in some form or other.
5. Forgiveness Work: Reflect on whom or what you need to forgive, including yourself. Consider the circumstances that led to actions or behaviors you’ve struggled to accept. This process can dissolve resentment and cultivate compassion. This includes the likes of work colleagues who are working against you, family members who could snap at you for no reason etc. etc.
6. Movement Meditation: Practices like yoga, walking meditation, or hiking combine mindfulness with physical activity, allowing your body and spirit to align effortlessly. Our souls thrive in nature. Get into a forest and move. Stretch through yoga and watch your niggles fade away. You won’t know if you don’t try.

Creating a Practice That Works for You

The beauty of spiritual practice lies in its adaptability. Whether you commit to five minutes of silent meditation or a full hour of breathwork and journaling, what matters most is consistency. These practices are tools to reconnect with your essence, providing a sanctuary of peace amidst the demands of daily life.

Choose practices that resonate with you and make them a non-negotiable part of your day. Over time, you’ll notice profound shifts in your mental clarity, emotional resilience, and overall sense of well-being. By cultivating a routine of spiritual practice, you’re not just enhancing your life—you’re creating a foundation for a more harmonious and fulfilling existence.

So, take a deep breath, pick a practice, and begin. Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you. 

And remember to reach out if you have any questions. I’ll be happy to dig out answers for you as it helps me on my journey also. 

Much Love, 
Matt