A Simple Way to Calm Anxious Thoughts at Night | Wednesday Wisdom with Karissa Vacker

[00:00:27] I first began to practice yoga and meditation when I was living in Chicago. The yoga studio I attended swiftly became my favorite place to be. It was beautiful but very simple. The wide open space of the yoga studio featured a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows that looked out over all of downtown Chicago.

[00:00:50] I loved getting that panoramic view of the city, knowing there was so much busyness and bustle out there, but in the warmth and quiet of the studio there was stillness and peace and introspection. I also loved that it was a place where I learned so much about myself, learning to breathe and meditate and move in a way I never had before.

[00:01:16] Being so immersed with these practices, I felt a sense of oneness with others around me. I felt a greater calmness within myself and more compassion toward others. Just like looking out those huge windows at the gorgeous view beyond, what was out there affected what was in me, and I hoped all the good-feeling things I was cultivating inside that studio would affect the world outside too.

[00:01:46] Having a special place that immediately brings you feelings of peace and connection can be so soothing and healing. Perhaps for you, it's a church or other spiritual gathering space, or it's out in nature, or maybe it's in your own home. I've been craving having that unique physical place where I instantly feel soothed again and have begun to find it in a different way than I did back then.

[00:02:16] I've discovered that now it's not so much a physical place, but the people that I'm with that bring me the greatest sense of reverence and peace. Last weekend, I traveled to see some of my friends from growing up. We've known each other since elementary school, yet when we gather now as adults, it always feels as if no time at all has passed.

[00:02:39] Our friendship is so deeply ingrained in all of us that being together gives me that feeling of connection and oneness. I feel it too with my husband and son. Lately, when anxious thoughts keep sleep at bay, I try to ground myself in that sense of oneness. Be it by imagining that sweet old yoga studio I loved so much, or the people in my life that fill me with love and joy.

[00:03:08] It slows the whirling thoughts in my mind and fills me instead with gratitude. Ultra running shoes are all about space. The space to go further, to feel better, to do something you never thought possible. And this space starts with Ultra Fit.

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[00:04:28] Well, Sleep Escape is the podcast that turns a restful night into your escape from all of the problems, to-dos, and worries of the waking world. I'm the host, Tyler. And I specifically craft the meditations and hypnosis sessions on Sleep Escape to guide you into the most deep, restful sleep.

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[00:05:14] If you're looking for a great way to wind down at night, you have to check out Lights Out Library, where I, Olympia, offer calming documentaries on a wide variety of topics, from science to history to mysteries and mythology. Visit lost cities, adventure through outer space, discover the science of our own consciousness, or learn the myths and legends of the world.

[00:05:43] There's something for all interests, and I present the topics in a thorough, easy-to-understand, and relaxing way. See why millions have enjoyed learning with Lights Out Library as they settle in for a good night's rest. Just search Lights Out Library in your favorite podcast player.

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