4 Ways I Find Peace in This Urban Chaos

Photo by Ryoji Iwata on Unsplash

Yes, I’m overwhelmed, again… Living in a big city can be overwhelming. The noise, the rush, everyone moving so fast — it can really get to you, especially if you’re used to a slower pace like I am, coming from a small island.

It’s been eight years in London and I’m still not used to it. I sometimes find myself missing the peace of my hometown, the slow-paced life, and the never-changing routine. I never thought I’d say that, but there is a familiarity and calmness to it!

Over time, I discovered a few things that help me relax, and I wanted to share them with you. They might sound a bit cheesy, but they work for me:

1. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. It sounds too easy, but it really helps to calm me down, even if it’s just for a couple of minutes. When the city noise and pace start to get to me, I find a quiet corner, close my eyes, and take deep, deliberate breaths. It’s a simple way to centre myself and regain a sense of calm.
2. Go for a walk in the sunshine (in the rare case it actually happens in London). There’s something about the sun on your face that just makes everything feel better. Even if it’s just a quick stroll around the block, it can really lift your spirits. I remember one particularly stressful day when I was feeling completely overwhelmed. I stepped outside, and the sun was…