It’s amazing, with the stress-consumed world we live in, the things which can so accidentally and gently put us at ease.

While brainstorming the things that have the power to put me at ease, and make me aware of my serenity, it came to realization how often I truly am not. It is much too easy to live in a constant state of stress and worry and responsibility, as I touched on in my previous article.

As someone who can only deal with human interaction in small doses, (a side effect of introversion), it is rare and quite pleasing to encounter people who do bring calm and carelessness, and I had to ask myself, “Am I one of those people? Do I put others at ease?” Hopefully, being aware of these things mean identifying and appreciating when we do feel right at home--at ease.

Here are some things that can aid in feeling at ease:

1. People.

Yes, I did just say that people can be overwhelming, and therefore, not usually top of the list, but certain people, the right people, can exceed all other means of having serenity. And, they can be rightly appreciated because they are living creatures. They can also be helpful because of conversation—whether leisurely or anxiety-driven, words can have such an effect on people.

2. Places.

Too broad, yes, I’ve just encompassed much of physical existence in two bullet points, but again, like people, certain places are so inviting and comforting, and, as I’ve said before, a new place, while unfamiliar, can bring just as much peace as a change in perspective. And, like people, can bring a switch and an un-calm feeling, too, even after being the promoter of peace.

3. Validation.

This one comes as a growing challenge, thanks to today’s society. There is a consistent and increasing message of diversity, equality, and acceptance being shoved down our throats, all while the real problems of inflexibility, comparison, mockery, and selfishness are still making themselves at home. And I don’t mean it’s one group of people with the former traits and another with the latter, but that this contradiction exists in all of us, and validation for ourselves and other people is slim because of it. But, that does not mean that it is not possible just because there is a variance in opinion or belief.

4. Attentiveness.

This can almost speak for itself. Whether you are on the giving or receiving end of it, many unwanted things can be avoided because of this simple act.

5. Listening.

Also fairly self-explanatory. As long as it is not interrupted by inconsequential distractions, the benefits of genuine, total listening are numerous to both parties. Try it sometime.

6. Giving Help.

Sometimes help can come about in some of the strangest and unconventional ways, and depending on what it is that needs to be helped and how known it is, one never really knows the extent of their kindness or generosity or time.

7. Relations

What’s that? Relations: meant in terms of relatives and family members. Yes, I could have said just that: relatives, but I wanted to capture the actions and the people. Relationship with relatives. Appreciating your family. As far as those things go, most have a hard time of it. But there are times when you just can’t help missing them or thinking of where you’d be without them. Sometimes, time with family, immediate or extended, is a way to be at ease.

8. Time.

An interesting concept, isn’t it? Time with, time away, time lost, time spared. Time given. All of the other things on this list would be nothing without it.

9. Distance.

In the terms of something negative in life, distance is thought of as a good thing; it provides an escape. It can go along with number 2 and a change of scene and perspective. Distance, however, in the terms of something positive, is typically abhorred and avoided. The last thing most of us want to hear is “absence makes the heart grow fonder,” but we cannot deny the truth of that statement.

10. Gratefulness.

It’s truly amazing the effect that habitual thankfulness can have on one’s life. You may have heard it before, that if routinely practiced, it can lead to major alterations in attitude, outlook, and general happiness… There is really only one way to find out.

Typically, it is thought that these things, like the feeling of being at ease, cannot be planned and sought after with the desired results, which is true to an extent. But, if we are aware of the things which do bring ease and comfort and peace into our crazy everyday lives, we might actually personally witness the effects and be all the better for it.