Midwest Mary

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By

Mary K. Doyle

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Finding Inner Peace

Merriam-Webster Dictionary describes the word “peace” as a state of tranquility or quiet, such as freedom from civil disturbance, a state of security or order within a community provided for by law or custom, freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions, and harmony in personal relations.

We live in a stressful world. With all the unrest around us, it is no wonder so many are on anxiety medications. Some resort to self-medication with alcohol or other addictive drugs.

Finding healthy, happy places and things that promote feelings of tranquility is vital to our well-being. Over the last year, I wrote a series of posts on what makes me happy. Maybe some of these places and activities provide joy for you, as well.

My Garden Makes Me Happy
Go Away to Your Happy Place
Happy, Pain-Free Exercise
Happy Sounds
Blogging Makes Me Happy
What Makes Us Happy
My Happy Home

Here are a few other ways to promote inner peace.

  • Turn off the news
  • Watch only calm, inspiring movies and programs
  • Avoid electronics—tv, radio, social media
  • Practice deep breathing exercises such as box breathing (inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale slowly for 4)
  • Meditate
  • Take a yoga class or do gentle stretching exercises on your own.
  • Walk or exercise, perhaps, vigorously
  • Go into a natural setting such as the forest, beach, or park
  • Journal. Write out your thoughts.
  • Listen to soothing music
  • Smile
  • Pray

For those of us who pray, we often find peace in knowing we have a God who hears our prayers and loves us. Search the word “trust” in Scripture, and we find countless entries. Perhaps one of the most commonly known is Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

If we actually can follow through and submit ourselves to the Lord, life is so much less stressful.  We do what we can to promote justice and calm, and the rest is in God’s hands.

Jesus said, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Mathew 6:24-26.

Striving for a more peaceful world begins with each of us. When we are at peace, people around us will also be.

What are your sources of joy?

©Mary K. Doyle, 2025

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Responses to “Finding Inner Peace”

  1. Dorothy’s New Vintage Kitchen

    All good advice. I just got in from the garden, and I feel pretty good!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Ah, the garden. Heaven on earth for sure. Love you much, Dorothy.

      Reply
  2. Michael Watson PhD

    Yes, finding moments of peace is more important than ever.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      For sure! Thank you, Michael. I appreciate you.

      Reply
  3. Ernie ‘Dawg’

    Prayer always bring me peace. Love this Mary.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      That’s great to hear, Ernie. God offers us all we need. Hugs to you.

      Reply
  4. capentalc

    Great verses, Mary. I like those too. I hope you get to enjoy peace in your lovely garden.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Lauren. I know your gorgeous flowers also bring you peace.

      Reply
  5. Escribir Y Sanar

    Mary, thank you for this beautifully written and uplifting post. In a world that often feels heavy and loud, your words are like a gentle breeze reminding us to breathe, pause, and reconnect with what truly matters. I especially appreciated your list of ways to promote inner peace—simple yet profound practices that are accessible to all of us. Your emphasis on trust in God really resonated with me; it’s so true that surrendering what we cannot control can bring deep relief to the soul.

    Your reflections inspired me to think about my own sources of joy—nature, music, meaningful conversations, and moments of silence where I can just “be.” Thank you for inviting that question into my heart today.

    Keep sharing your light. The world needs it.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you for your fabulous input, Madelaine. I hear the stress in voices around the world. Perhaps some little activity can bring a few moments of peace. Love and appreciate you, dear friend.

      Reply
  6. Penn,…

    it is such a busy and noisy world now Mary, … as you say finding ‘me’ time, away from all the white noise, bad news, fake news, it just wears you down, … and you do need to take a breath. A calming much-needed breath., … thank you for posting this my friend, I needed it today, a reminder, … I always scroll down to look for your audio, … it’s become a habit now, for me… wishing you a very peace filled day, Mary, …💙

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Sending a giant hug your way, Penn. Thank you for your input, and I am thrilled that you like my audios. I also enjoy yours, my friend.

      Reply
      1. Penn,…

        Hug received and returned in kind, Mary, ..and I do, audio wise,..next one of yours please, …💙

        Reply
  7. Kym Gordon Moore

    My dear Mary, your garden is truly a sanctuary of peace my friend. 🌳💐🌿 Cast your worries away when connecting to this respite of hope and happiness! 🧘🏼‍♀️🙏🏼🧘🏼‍♂️ Sending you much love, joy and tranquility my friend. 🥰🦋💖

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Hello Lady Kym, My garden is teeny but brings me joy. How is your weather? Are you affected by the flooding? Love to you.

      Reply
      1. Kym Gordon Moore

        I adore your garden Mary. So cute and cozy! 💐🏡🌿 Our weather is “muy loco” at this point. The day is extremely hot and we sometimes experience severe thunderstorms. ⚡☔⚡

        Parts of our area has experience flooding, but thank God ours hasn’t. Stay safe and sending you lots of love and hugs my dear! 😘💖🤗 Cheers! 🥂

        Reply
  8. Violet Lentz

    Such a worthy subject. Inner peace- tranquility- sometimes it seems like I will never achieve it- and yet there are times when I know I have found my silence. Thank you for this timely reminder.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Even a few minutes here and there can help. Thank you for reading and adding your thoughts to the post, Violet. I appreciate you.

      Reply
  9. Nancy Homlitas

    That is one gorgeous flower garden, Mary. It looks like a wonderful place to breathe a sigh of relief and pray. Take care, Mary. 🙂

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      It really is, Nancy. The garden is postage stamp size but makes me happy. May you always find peace, my friend.

      Reply
      1. Nancy Homlitas

        Thank you, Mary. 🥰

        Reply
  10. gc1963

    I agree and adhere to the consumption of positive news and feed. News that dwell on negativity or reportage of negatives like accident, blasts, extremism etc should be avoided. Also movies, serials , books which do not give hope can be detrimental to peace.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      You are absolutely correct. Great points, my friend.

      Reply
  11. Stephanie

    Having heard you read poetry, I love the way when I read your posts, I can hear you so clearly. Yours is a peaceful tone indeed.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Stephanie. That is fabulous to hear. I hope all is going well with you in your new surroundings.

      Reply
  12. Herald Staff

    What a lovely photo of your beautiful garden to accompany such thoughtful advice. We often feel overwhelmed, and simply turning off the distractions and praying can quickly quiet the noise and help us focus on what truly matters. Great guidance!

    –Scott

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Scott. I can’t offer anything profound, but little steps do matter. Peace and joy to you, my friend.

      Reply
      1. Herald Staff

        I think that’s the trick, for me anyway. Instead of getting caught up in the big picture, the smaller, practical steps of doing is the key, and it’s a great reminder. Have a great rest of your day!

        –Scott

        Reply
  13. destiny

    wonderful ways you’ve shared, Mary…
    inspiring…🤍🙏

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Destiny. I appreciate you reading the post and commenting.

      Reply
  14. GP

    Finding peace within yourself is priceless!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      It really is, GP. Good to see you, my friend.

      Reply
  15. vermavkv

    Beautiful write up and nice tips for staying calm.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Vijay. They are common things, but sometimes we need to be reminded.

      Reply
  16. MoonGirl

    I started this year with one intention, to find peace. I am off social media for 6 months now, trying to practice gratitude as much as I can. listening to music. Trying to lighten the weight of any hardship to give my nervous system a break. Loved the post. Thank you,

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Your methods are solid, MoonGirl. May peace always be yours.

      Reply
  17. Awakening Wonders

    Our world is beautiful place to reside especially if you follow this – “Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Yes, Mary. Sometimes, the easiest things to do are the hardest. We want control. But God knows better than we do. I appreciate your input.

      Reply
  18. Michele Lee

    Thank you for your happy highlights and lovely suggestions, dear Mary, angel friend. Appreciate you. 🕊️

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, sweet, dancing poet. Love to you.

      Reply
  19. Anonymous

    Your garden is absolutely gorgeous. Thank you for reminding us that peace is not found in only one place or in one way. Moments of peacefulness add up and must be sought.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you. I appreciate you taking the time to offer your insight.

      Reply
  20. philsblog01

    Great advice Mary! I employ some of these methods also.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Great to hear, Phil. Sometimes, we just need to be reminded.

      Reply
  21. Mindful Mystic (MM)

    Gorgeous garden! We live in such a violent and cruel climate—the news is depressing and distressing every day. I left my mainstream religious community because it’s so politicized there’s no peace for a humanitarian like me to be found there. We need reprieves that bring us peace and joy. Lovely post, Mary. 🙏

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Right? We want to be aware of what’s going on in the world, but we also need to step away to keep our sanity.

      Reply
  22. joannerambling

    Sometimes happiness and that peaceful feeling comes easy other times we need to look for it but sadly there are some who feel neither happy or peaceful and do not try and find either going through life feeling blah or nothing. I pray for these people as a life without joy, happiness and peace isn’t much of a life in my opinion

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      You are so right, Joann. Thank you for taking the time to read, contemplate, and comment. Blessings to you.

      Reply
  23. johnlmalone

    all great remedies esp turn off the news; thanks Mary; will have another read —-

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      You’re fabulous, John. Hugs to you.

      Reply
  24. Rosaliene Bacchus

    Your garden is delightful, Mary! Your ways for promoting inner peace work for me, too. Much-needed these days 🙂 Matthew 6: 24-26 is one of my favorite passages when I’m in distress.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Rosaliene. My garden is teeny, but we don’t need much to find peace. We just have to search it out.

      Reply
      1. Rosaliene Bacchus

        It’s not the size of our garden that counts, Mary. One plant would be more than enough to connect with the healing power of Mother Nature.

        Reply
  25. kagould17

    Excellent post Mary. We all need to calm the heck down and any way we can do it is a bonus. For us, it is being in nature, either walking in the forest or biking through the countryside. There is also relaxing with coffee and a book in the afternoon, either indoors or on the back deck. I do gardening and yard work and that has a calming influence. Have a good evening. Allan

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Yes! You and Patty are nature people, and so am I. Thank God for these magnificent gifts around us.

      Reply
  26. Hazel

    This is so true. When we have inner peace, we have the power and ability to spread it. I love all the verses, Mary, especially about the birds who roam freely without worries. Peace and love to the world!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, much, sweet Hazel. May God’s peace always be with you.

      Reply
  27. Hazel

    And also with you, Mary. You’re most welcome

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      You are such a sweetie, Hazel.

      Reply
  28. Swamigalkodi Astrology

    Beautiful share

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you. Have the best day.

      Reply
  29. luisa zambrotta

    Beautiful post!

    It’s so true.
    Finding moments of peace is vital.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Luisa. I wish you peace and calm, my friend.

      Reply
      1. luisa zambrotta

        Thanks a lot, dear Mary💙🙏💙

        Reply
  30. Indira

    Your tips are quite good, Mary! The picture also is so peaceful!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, dear Indira. Blessings to you.

      Reply
  31. Eternity

    Thanks for your like of my post, ” Jewish Prophets 3 – Isaiah Chapter 2.;” you are very kind.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      You are welcome.

      Reply
  32. quantumkindy

    love this! i make sure to only surround myself with people who genuinely care about me. life was chaotic in a toxic environment

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      That is an excellent point. Thank you for reminding us that the people we associate with also affect us.

      Reply
  33. Dawn Pisturino

    I trust in God – not human beings. Whatever happens, God knows what’s best. We don’t always understand why things are allowed to happen, but in the end, it comes out right.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you for your insight, Dawn.

      Reply
  34. ginaweb9

    Peace, love , and gratitude to the Universe. Love it!

    Reply
  35. Lauren Scott, Author

    Your garden is gorgeous, Mary, and thanks for your wonderful ideas for finding peace during these crazy times.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      My pleasure, Lauren. They’re all simple things, but sometimes the reminder is helpful.

      Reply
  36. Edward Ortiz

    Prayer, meditation, and journaling are my go-to when I want to find peace and quiet. God and my family are definitely my sources of joy. Thank you, my friend, for writing this piece.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you for adding your sources of peace, Edward. Your input is valuable.

      Reply
      1. Edward Ortiz

        You’re very welcome, my friend. I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

        Reply
  37. Beth Foster

    Peace be still

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Yes. Stillness takes effort these days, doesn’t it, Beth? Thank you for adding to the story.

      Reply
  38. Kimberly Vargas Agnese

    Thanks Mary:) When I step out my back door into Meadow Arc to gaze at butterflies dancing above our little meadow, it’s like going to a different state of mind.. everything changes, and the things troubling me become trivial…

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      That’s great, Kimberly. Nature is magical.

      Reply
  39. P. J. Gudka

    Lovely post and helpful tips to help promote inner peace. Honestly, I don’t know if I’ve ever been fully at peace ever in my life. But I’m trying.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Oh, I’m so sorry about that, Pooja. May you have total peace ASAP.

      Reply
      1. P. J. Gudka

        Thanks so much, I’m trying my best to move in that direction with meditation etc.

        Reply
  40. Cindy Georgakas

    Such beautiful, wise wonderful and practical suggestions, Mary. I love all of those and adopting the things you talk about definitely take me there.💕

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      I’m sure you have many avenues to peace, Cindy. You certainly help us find our healthy, happy path.

      Reply
      1. Cindy Georgakas

        Thank you, Mary! Like you I don’t remain idol and sure do! Big hugs! 🤗

        Reply
  41. Swamigalkodi Astrology

    Engaging read

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you. All the best to you.

      Reply
  42. Amy

    Wise word, Mary! Thank you for the advice!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you for reading and commenting, Amy.

      Reply
  43. Kevin

    Not worrying about things I can’t control is a huge help in getting through the day. That’s just wasted energy right there. Great post, Mary. 🤗

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      A giant yes to that, Kevin. You know what you’re doing, my friend.

      Reply
  44. Priti

    Good ways . Well discussed ☺️☺️

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you much, Priti.

      Reply
  45. Hitasakhi

    Wow lovely your voice made the verse soothing as if one is meditating 🧘‍♂️

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      That is wonderful to hear, Hitasakhi. I appreciate you taking the time to read, listen, and comment.

      Reply
  46. Priti

    Welcome 😊

    Reply
  47. K. Ravindre

    Excellent advice, Mary!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, K. Ravindre.

      Reply
  48. Thien Le

    Hi Mary! Your story and website are amazing! I’m new to WordPress, so I’m still learning how it works. My website is basically about journalism writing and I’m still trying to figure out how to get more people to view my stories. Could you give me any advice?

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Hello and welcome, Thien. Your key to success is in building a community. Read and comment on other people’s blogs and you will find they will do the same for you. Kindness and sincerity go a long way as well as relevant content. All the best to you.

      Reply
      1. Thien Le

        Thank you so much! I will work on that!

        Reply
  49. The Activist

    Peace and quiet away from people 😊

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      So true. Thank you for visiting.

      Reply
  50. Rakesh K. Singh

    Absolutely, Ms. Doyle. Actually, when we cultivate calm within, we ripple compassion outward. So, inner peace is not passive. In fact, it is generative.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      That’s an excellent point, Rakesh. I appreciate you taking the time to join the conversation. Welcome, friend.

      Reply
      1. Rakesh K. Singh

        Your welcome means a lot. I look forward to more exchanges like this.

        Reply

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