Being Present

Some of us thought we would be jetting off on holidays this summer and our plans have changed. It is helpful to remember that nothing stays the same. Everything is temporary. We will again holiday in other countries, in the future, if we so choose.

I am encouraging living in the now. It might sound difficult or even impossible but being aware of the present moment has benefits. It allows us to be more aware of what is going on in our body and in our mind.

Developing the skill of being present improves our relationships with ourselves and with others. I think the world would be a better place if we become more aware and lived in the present moment.

We can learn to bring our attention to the present in ways such as deep breathing – a relaxation tool we can use regardless of age or where or what we are doing.

We all know someone who does not listen when we speak. They might ask a question and, as you answer, you see their eyes glaze-over or they might interrupt your answer with another question. If we are fully present and listen, we can show others they are valued and that we care. When we listen, we are not trying to think of our response, we are concentrating on what the other person is saying. We are attentive and we are present, and we do not interrupt.

When we meet someone, resist the urge to judge. Resist the temptation to think about what they think of you. Stay in the present, concentrate, be curious and be kind. Give that person (whoever they are) your time.

Try not to think too much about what has happened in the past because the past is gone. Try not to let our minds wander too far off into the future because that is simply our imagination, it is nothing more than a daydream. Come into the present by paying attention to your body – perhaps you might wriggle your toes or gaze at the sky to find cloud formations – your toes and the clouds can only be in the present moment!

Pay attention to whatever task you are doing whether it is brushing your teeth or baking bread, give it your best effort. Concentrate. Allow yourself time and slow your approach to every task.  There is never a need to rush and race. Find the happiness or joy in everything you do.

Try to go without social media.  We do not need to be consistently online – our brains and eyes need a break.  Exercise – we all know how good it is for our mental and physical health.

When you enjoy something/someone – say it and give thanks. Tell your friends that you enjoy being with them, that you enjoy their company or are grateful they give you their time. Along with thanks try to spot opportunities for which to be grateful.  Be grateful for the little things. You can tell someone that you are grateful they are in your life or write down those for whom you are thankful. Keep it simple, “today I am grateful that I was able to meet my friend / enjoy a nice meal alone” Do something nice for someone else without anyone finding out.

Pay attention to your reactions and emotions. If we do not know how we are feeling, it is difficult to know what or how we can make positive change.

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