Many individuals have faced challenges such as illness, economic instability, climate change, grief, and racial disparities. In addition to these, factors like inflation, supply chain problems, and the repercussions of Russia's conflict with Ukraine are causing significant stress among Americans, as shown by a recent survey for the American Psychological Association. Experts suggest that the onset of spring can be a natural opportunity to assess our mental health and reconnect with activities that bring us happiness and purpose, providing our minds with a break when needed. "It is truly an ideal time for individuals to reflect on their current state and assess where they stand," experts say. Paul Napper, a psychology consultant to business leaders and co-author of "The Power of Agency: The 7 Principles to Conquer Obstacles, Make Effective Decisions and Create a Life on Your Own Terms," reflected on his experiences and emphasized the importance of making decisions aligned with our values, interests, and passions to achieve personal agency. Napper highlighted the significance of examining our options, even if they may not be ideal, in order to adapt to our circumstances. As we transition into a new season, here are five strategies to clear our minds. Nkechi Njaka, a meditation guide in San Francisco with a background in neuroscience, emphasizes the importance of practicing mindfulness in order to combat the stress that comes with being human. Mindfulness meditation, which helps individuals stay present and reduce daily stress, is a valuable tool for returning to the present moment when the mind starts to wander. By focusing on bodily sensations and grounding oneself in the present, individuals can alleviate the harmful effects of stress on the body. The heat of the sun can cause the mind to wander, but it is important to gently refocus on breathing and the present moment. Approaching mindfulness with compassion, curiosity, openness, and forgiveness can make it easier to continue practicing. Utilize transitional moments throughout the day, such as waking up or changing locations, to establish a routine. Research suggests that writing in a journal can enhance well-being, so trying the bullet journal method may be beneficial. In recent years, a popular method created by digital designer Ryder Carroll has gained attention. In his bestselling book, “The Bullet Journal Method: Track the Past, Order the Present, Design the Future,” Carroll outlines an organizational system that also serves as a mindfulness exercise. This method involves continually evaluating how time and energy are being spent to determine if they are worthwhile. Carroll emphasizes the importance of working on the right tasks to be productive. Initially using journaling to help manage his attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and succeed in his career, Carroll began to assess how tasks made him feel. He found that experiences involving helping others and performing acts of service gave him a sense of purpose and pride. Through journaling, Carroll discovered this pattern. He mentioned that if you are unsure of what you want, you will always be dissatisfied with what you have. In today's world, we are bombarded with an overwhelming amount of information through various sources like news alerts, social media, and emails, causing feelings of anxiety and helplessness. Computer science professor Cal Newport suggests simplifying your news consumption by choosing one or two reliable sources and reading them at a set time each day. He also advises taking a break from optional technologies for 30 days. Newport, who is 39 and has never used social media, recommends finding a routine for consuming news, such as listening to a podcast during your commute or reading a newspaper during breakfast. He wrote about the results of 1,600 people attempting the challenge in his book. The individuals who completed the entire 30 days were enthusiastic and eager to make the most of their time. Instead of mindlessly using TikTok or Instagram, consider how you could be spending your free time in a more fulfilling way, such as reading a book, taking a walk in nature, or listening to music. Allocate time for these activities. CLEAR YOUR PHYSICAL SPACE During the pandemic, and especially during lockdown, many individuals started to remove clutter from their homes, a trend The Washington Post called the “great decluttering.” If you haven't addressed your clutter yet, now is a good time to do so. Catherine Roster, a professor at the Anderson School of Management at the University of New Mexico who has studied the impact of cluttered homes on individuals, stated that messy spaces can hinder clear thinking and have a negative effect on emotions and productivity. Hiring a professional organizer may not be feasible for everyone, so Roster recommended partnering with a friend who is also decluttering to provide support and help each other make decisions about what to keep and stay on track. Listening to music while organizing can serve as motivation, according to Barbara Greenberg, a clinical psychologist in Connecticut. Many of her patients are feeling emotionally overwhelmed due to information overload and lack of social or emotional fulfillment. Greenberg suggests reconnecting with loved ones who may have been neglected during the pandemic, as their support and positivity can be beneficial. If it has been a long time, re-establishing contact may feel awkward initially. However, Greenberg advises being honest in your approach. For instance, you could explain that you lost touch during the pandemic but now things are settling down and you would love to reconnect. Not seeing the person has been something you have missed. This honesty may lead to a chain of positivity, where the person you reach out to feels motivated to do the same with others. According to Greenberg, everyone appreciates receiving such a call. ©2022 The New York Times Company holds the copyright.