If you know me, you know that managing anxiety is something I’ve been open about.
If you’re anything like me, life in your 20s can feel a bit overwhelming at times. Juggling school and/or work, relationships, and figuring out who you are can bring about waves of anxiety. In the midst of all this chaos and when I’m feeling totally overwhelmed, I listen to a meditation track that has brought me immense peace—Vapor (A Meditation) by the Liturgists.
If you haven’t heard it yet, you can find it here.
I want to share why this 9-minute meditation is one of my go-to secrets for finding calm when anxiety hits hard. It’s become a sort of lifeline for me, and I’m hopeful it might help someone else, too.
Embracing Impermanence
The Vapor meditation echoes the sentiment that everything in life is temporary. The lyrics remind us that our worries and stresses, much like vapor, are transient. This perspective shift can be liberating. Think about those moments from childhood that seemed so monumental back then—like not getting a turn on the playground. Now, they’re just distant memories, right?
When I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself that my current anxieties—whether they’re about work or social pressures—are just vapor. They don’t define me. This realization helps me stay grounded and focused on what truly matters.
Perspective Is Everything
One part of the song discusses how everyone you’ve ever heard of—every hero, creator, and explorer—lived their lives on this “pale blue dot,” Earth. This imagery puts things into perspective. It reminds me that while our individual struggles feel huge, they’re just fleeting moments in the grand scheme of the universe.
For me, this perspective instills a sense of humility and gratitude. Life is a gift, and we’re here to enjoy moments of laughter, creativity, and love. Why waste it worrying about things that will soon pass?
Practicing Mindfulness
Vapor encourages us to recognize our frailty and appreciate the present. Take a moment to feel your breath, to acknowledge your heartbeat, and to realize that life itself is a mysterious and beautiful gift. This practice of mindfulness is powerful. It’s something I try to incorporate into my daily routine.
Whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or just sitting quietly with a cup of coffee, being present helps me manage anxiety and appreciate the beauty in everyday life.
Releasing the Need for Perfection
Perfectionism is a common trait among us twenty-somethings, but Vapor reminds us of the silliness of human arrogance. Trying to be “unique” or “important” can be exhausting. Instead, I’ve learned to let go of the need to be perfect. Life isn’t a competition; it’s a series of experiences.
9 Minutes to Calm
I encourage you to listen to Vapor (A Meditation) and reflect on its message. How can you incorporate the idea of impermanence into your life? Remember, it’s okay to have anxious moments. But know that they don’t define you. You’re here to live, love, and enjoy this incredible adventure called life.
If you found this helpful or have your own tips for managing anxiety, I’d love to hear from you!
Stay calm and centered,
Sienna
