Here are six reasons to cultivating inner calm: it's worth the effort!

Reason #1: Inner calm helps you stay focused on what's truly important.

Reason #2: Inner calm helps you manage stress and stay positive.

Reason #3: Inner calm keeps you physically healthier! (The mind-body connection is very real.)

Reason #4: Inner calm keeps tempers from flaring. Our IQ drops by 30 points when we're angry!

Reason #5: Parents' inner calm creates a family atmosphere that encourages staying centered and present.

Reason #6: Our own inner calm sets a great example for our children re: how to handle stress.

Here are some simple tips for HOW we can cultivate inner calm.

Inner Calm How-To #1: Breathe deeply, 3X in a row. Every morning, and during tense moments. Instant stress-buster.

Inner Calm How-To #2: Laugh – as often as you possibly can. Even on the worst days, watch for micromoments of joy.

Inner Calm How-To #3: Get a full night's sleep whenever you can. Sleep is a powerful healer.

Inner Calm How-To #4: Take 5 minutes 4U. Flip thru a photo album, listen to a song, make a cup of tea, read a magazine article, doodle. Other suggestions?

Inner Calm How-To #5: Put therapy goals, treatment plans on hold; spend a while enjoying your children just the way they are.

Inner Calm How-To #6: Set aside worries about future, regrets about past. Focus on the present moment. Breathe, close your eyes, smile.

We as parents of children with special needs need to cultivate inner calm, even though it does take a bit of effort.

Joan Celebi originally founded SpecialNeedsParentCoach.com in her capacity as a certified life coach for parents of children with special needs. Her goal is to give you the practical strategies you need for successfully navigating life as a parent of a child with special needs and helps you create a manageable, balanced, and joyful life, for both you and your family. Visit Joan at http://www.specialneedsparentcoach.com.

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