How to Start Mindful Practices When Life Feels Chaotic
- Mimi Kintaudi
- Mar 14
- 3 min read
Life has a way of running at full speed, and most of us are just trying to keep up. It feels like every time you catch your breath, something else demands your attention. The laundry is piling up, the kids are calling your name, and work deadlines are staring you down. When was the last time you truly paused? Not just for a second, but really paused and gave yourself permission to breathe? If you’re like most of us, it’s probably been way too long.
Mindfulness has been my lifesaver, especially in seasons where chaos seemed louder than clarity. I know what it’s like to feel like you’re holding it all together with duct tape and prayers. But I also know that carving out just a little time for yourself can completely shift your perspective.
The Problem: Overwhelm and a Lack of Balance
Let’s keep it real—life doesn’t come with an "off" button. Many of us are so used to operating in survival mode that the idea of slowing down feels foreign. You’re stretched thin, barely have time to breathe, and the thought of sitting still seems like an impossible luxury.
But here’s the truth: survival mode isn’t sustainable. The constant go-go-go mentality leads to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and feeling disconnected from yourself and the people around you. It’s hard to show up fully for others when you’re not showing up for yourself.
The Solution: Starting with Mindful Practices
Mindfulness isn’t about adding another task to your already-packed schedule—it’s about creating intentional moments of stillness within the chaos. It’s about reclaiming your time and your peace, even if it’s just five minutes a day.
Here are some simple ways to begin:
The Five-Minute Rule: Set a timer for five minutes and focus on your breathing. Inhale deeply for four counts, hold for two, and exhale for six. Let each exhale release a little tension.
Morning Intentions: Before checking your phone or diving into the day, take one minute to set an intention. It can be as simple as, “I will approach today with patience and grace.”
Mindful Meals: Choose one meal to eat without distractions. Put your phone down, savor each bite, and notice the textures and flavors.
Gratitude Practice: End your day by writing down three things you’re grateful for. It can be something as small as a good cup of coffee or as big as making it through the day.
Take the First Step: If you feel like you don’t even know where to begin, start by exploring your current relationship with mindfulness. The Mindfulness Snapshot Quiz is a free, simple tool to help you understand where you are and where you can grow.
Overcoming the Challenges of Starting
“I don’t have time for this.”Trust me, I get it. That’s why I created the Mindfulness in 5 course—a quick, impactful way to find calm in just five minutes a day. You don’t need to carve out hours or wait for the perfect moment. You just need to start.
“I can’t sit still that long.”Mindfulness isn’t about sitting cross-legged on the floor for hours. It’s about being present in small, intentional ways. Start with one mindful breath or a quick body scan while you’re in the car or at your desk.
When you prioritize mindfulness, you’re not just taking care of yourself—you’re creating ripple effects for those around you. A calmer, more grounded you shows up differently for your family, friends, and community. And we carry so much on our shoulders. Mindfulness gives us permission to put some of that weight down.
Your peace is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Take Action Today
If life feels chaotic, let today be the day you take one small step toward your peace. Whether it’s taking the quiz, signing up for the course, or simply breathing a little deeper, every step counts. And don’t forget to share your journey! Post your mindful moments on social media, tag us, and inspire someone else to find their calm.
And until next time, I'm Meanna DK, and I love y'all, I swear I do!
Comments