Sometimes, we need a little help finding some headspace. There are days when we would rather just stay in bed instead of face what’s ahead. One primary reason: we’re running on sensory overload every. single. day. What’s this lead to? We’ve probably started to experience a quasi short-circuit which makes us feel tired, overwhelmed and border-line depressed. Our response rate gets slower. We are less engaged in our interactions. We’re not 100% present in the moment.

This begs the question: how (and when) on earth do I find a moment of “zen”? There are a million ways recommended for finding some headspace and tons of advice all over the internet on when/how to get it. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be a Buddhist Monk, a Guru or a Swami capable of perfect meditation to attain a moment of calm. All you need to do is dedicate yourself to a few moments daily to just disconnect, unplug and recharge your internal battery (without the energy drinks).

Here are a 5 helpful tips to help you carve out the “you time” for finding some headspace.

Listen, calm down and get pumped up

Pick a relaxing tune. Sit down, close your eyes and listen. One three-to-five minute track will pull your mind’s attention. Then, pick another up-beat tune or an inspirational audio file to get you inspired and pumped up.

Take a walk

There’s a two-fold benefit with this one. First of all, by stepping away from what you were doing and changing your surroundings, you’re re-engaging your mind. You’ll redirect your focus. By walking, you’ll also start your blood pumping again (and squeeze in a few extra steps for the day). Increased blood flow = increased energy. You don’t have to go for a park or anything, just a walk around the house or the block will suffice.

Just breathe

According to the Harvard Medical School, there really are benefits to controlled breathing. Deep abdominal breathing encourages full oxygen exchange — that is, the beneficial trade of incoming oxygen for outgoing carbon dioxide. this helps reduce stress, tension and anxiety. So helps to reduce anxiety and stress.

Read a book

If you have a little more time, read a book. Not the audio book, but the actual book. Audio books by nature allow you to multi-task. Rather than focus on holding the book (or e-reader) or on processing the information on the actual page, you find yourself doing other things. By picking up a good ol’ book, you’re completely focusing your energy on the act of reading the book. With the right book, hopefully the story or content you’re reading is intriguing enough that you don’t find yourself dozing off!

Timing is everything

Isn’t this always the case? If you’re able to plan for it, be sure it’s time that you won’t be interrupted. Consider first thing in the morning while you have your wake-up coffee or tea. This can get you out of the morning “slump” and change your mindset to one of enthusiasm and excitement. Alternatively, at night before you go to bed is a great time for finding some headspace as it will help you naturally wind down, encouraging a restful night of sleep.

Conclusion: Finding some headspace means attaining a sense of well-being

By finding your zen, you’ll find yourself more engaged in your day-to-day interactions. You’ll probably find yourself more energized, as well.