5 Ways To Learn How To Quiet Your Mind If You're The Worst At Meditating

For anyone who's taken up the practice themselves, you don't need me to tell you how essential meditation is for your health.

It decreases blood pressure, lowers cholesterol levels, and calms you the f*ck down -- just to name a few of the perks.

At the same time, I understand meditation doesn't come easily to everyone.

Not everyone can sit down -- and literally just sit -- for an extended period of time.

Sometimes, your racing thoughts are just too persistent to ease into the silence.

But hear me out -- if you can will yourself to find the intention to focus on something, your mind will get there.

Here are five ways to learn how to quiet your mind and achieve focus if meditation just isn't for you.

1. Deep Breathing Exercises

Every deep breath counteracts a physical reaction to stress in the body.

This may come easier if you try taking a full break from whatever it is you're doing and focus only on these intentional inhales and exhales.

This way, you're not taking a full 10- to 20-minute break to meditate, but at least you are taking one to five minutes to slow down those speedy thoughts of yours.

2. Pick Up An Adult Coloring Book

That's kind of what they're there for.

Adult coloring books were created for individuals with anxiety, or for those who simply need a break from life's annoying little nuances

Along with bringing you some nice, juicy nostalgia, coloring has a sort of tranquilizing effect on the psyche, allowing you to get into a headspace capable of true mindfulness.

If you're focusing on coloring inside the lines (or outside, if you dare), then your thoughts are bound to slow down.

Remember, you can only realistically focus on one thing at a time.

3. Break That Sweat

Breaking a sweat is probably my favorite way to take my mind off of life's bullsh*t.

When you get your body moving, you're perspiring, you're releasing endorphins, you're shedding toxins from your body -- there's almost too much going on for your brain to possibly focus on anything else.

4. Pet Your Dog

If you have a little fur-baby living with you, take some time to solely focus on giving the little on your love and affection.

I know it sounds too good to be true, but for real -- pet your little guy or girl, and be mindful as you do so.

Don't pet while multitasking; literally just pay all of your attention to your fur-baby.

Can you really say no to this?

5. Drink Tea

Hold the warm mug in your hands; relish its comfort in your palms.

Lean your face over the mug and allow the steam to soothe you.

These simple practices of observing your feelings will do wonders to quiet your mind, but it also certainly helps that actually drinking tea can decrease cortisol, bringing your whole body to a true sense of calm.