Reclaiming inner calm in a fast-paced world

By Sheherbano Moizali

Why do people today feel more anxious, restless, and emotionally exhausted than ever before?
Why has the feeling of guilt, emptiness, and emotional imbalance become so common?

During a thoughtful conversation on Hum News Morning Show Subh Say Aagay, mind science expert Dr Moiz Hussain explored the rising levels of anxiety, emotional fatigue, and inner restlessness shaping modern life. He argued that these experiences are not random, but the result of multiple imbalances created by today’s lifestyle, digital habits, and weakened emotional connections.

The mind as a system of balance

According to Dr Moiz Hussain, human beings function through interconnected layers, physical, emotional, cognitive (belief systems), and spiritual. When these layers fall out of sync, individuals begin to lose inner stability. This disconnection, he explained, often manifests as anxiety, irritability, low mood, and a persistent sense of dissatisfaction.

He stressed that mental well-being is not dependent on one factor alone, but on harmony between these dimensions. When one layer dominates, such as constant mental stimulation or emotional neglect, the overall system becomes strained.

Digital overload and mental fatigue

One of the major drivers of rising anxiety today, he said, is the overwhelming speed of information. People are constantly exposed to social media updates, news cycles, notifications, and comparison-driven content. This uninterrupted inflow leaves the brain in a near-constant state of stimulation.

Over time, this reduces the mind’s ability to rest, process emotions, and reset. Dr Moiz noted that many individuals now live in a cycle of mental exhaustion without even realising it. He advised that reducing screen time and creating intentional “quiet gaps” in the day is essential for restoring clarity.

Nature as a reset mechanism

Dr Moiz also emphasised reconnecting with nature as a simple yet powerful healing practice. He suggested spending time near trees, greenery, and open spaces to help regulate emotional stress. Even brief moments of stillness in natural surroundings, he said, can have a grounding effect on the nervous system.

He added that such practices are supported by research indicating that exposure to nature is linked to lower anxiety levels and improved emotional health.

Breathwork and nervous system control

A key technique he highlighted was controlled breathing, often used in high-pressure environments, including space training programmes. He referred to “box breathing,” a method designed to regulate the nervous system and restore calm.

He explained that breathing practices influence the vagus nerve, which connects the brain to the gut, often described as the body’s secondary emotional centre. When regulated through breath, this connection helps reduce stress responses and improve emotional stability.

The technique involves:
• Inhaling for 4 seconds
• Holding for 7 seconds
• Exhaling slowly for 8 seconds

Practising this for 10 minutes daily, he said, can significantly calm the mind and stabilise emotional reactions.

Relationships, ego and emotional wellbeing

Beyond individual practices, Dr Moiz highlighted the importance of relationships in maintaining mental health. He observed that many modern relationships have become transactional, driven by convenience rather than emotional depth.

He stressed that meaningful connections with family, friends, and children play a crucial role in emotional grounding. Without these bonds, individuals often experience increased loneliness and internal conflict.

The psychology of desire and ego

Sharing a teaching associated with Buddha, he explained the relationship between desire, ego, and suffering. In the example, when a man asked for happiness, Buddha responded by removing “I” (ego) and “want” (desire), leaving only happiness.

Dr Moiz used this to highlight how excessive expectations, ego-driven thinking, and constant wanting often fuel emotional distress. He noted that simplicity, gratitude, spirituality, and reduced attachment to outcomes are key pathways to inner peace.

Returning to balance

His discussion served as a reminder that mental well-being in today’s world requires conscious effort. Slowing down, limiting digital overload, reconnecting with nature, practising mindful breathing, and nurturing genuine relationships are not luxuries, they are necessities for emotional survival in a fast-paced age.