8 PAID CONTENT Find your path to inner peace There are different paths to peace. Here are some ideas Guarneri suggests you consider: Meditation. Types of meditation vary. In mindfulness meditation, you focus on your breathing. In another popular form, called transcendental meditation, you calm your mind by silently repeating a mantra with your eyes closed. A mantra is a word, phrase or sound, such as “shalom” (meaning peace). Centering prayer. If you’re religious, this approach may appeal to you. With your eyes closed you silently repeat a Christian word of one or two syllables, such as “Jesus” or “Amen,” which is chosen during a short prayer. Tai chi or yoga. Such meditative activities may appeal to you if you enjoy movement or being active. Tai chi promotes relaxation through gentle, flowing movements. Yoga involves specific poses and can help calm your mind. A walk. Choose somewhere relaxing, such as a nature trail, rather than a busy street. Another option is a labyrinth, which is a spiral path or maze that you can use for slow, meditative walking. To locate a labyrinth near you, try labyrinthlocator.com. Connect. Good relationships, such as with family, friends and colleagues, are essential to your well-being and happiness. "Loneliness is an independent risk factor for heart disease," Guarneri says. If your social ties are limited, consider connecting with others through groups with similar interests, religious organizations or volunteer work. Gratitude. This can take different forms. For example, keep a gratitude journal, write a note of thanks or tell someone how grateful you are. Positive affirmations. Practicing affirmations, such as, “I’m healthy, I’m well, I’m strong,” is really reinforcing in your subconscious mind, Guarneri says. She recommends repeating your affirmations multiple times throughout the day. If a negative thought creeps in, immediately replace it with a positive affirmation.