Mindfulness – Being Present in the Now Moment

Are you given to an ultra fragmented mind with thoughts in all directions? Do you ever have that sensation of a dizzying swirl of memories, regrets, thoughts, wishes, plans, worries all vying for space in your head at once?

I do admit that I am certainly guilty of that at times. And so I do the inner work of being PRESENT. Our lives in this modern world are full, and multitasking seems to be a way of life, unless you are a monk in a monastery. The condition of “terminal busy-ness” seems to be an intrinsic part of the human experience. (And this is especially affected by all these technological devices that have become an integral part of most people’s lives.)

It is it healthy? Is it productive, really?

When ones attention is spread all over the place, it can feel like a loss of control and it is certainly the antithesis of inner peace.

So what many people seem to be seeking is peacefulness, stress-management, and/or a more meaningful life experience.

That is why we must awaken to the empowerment of PRESENCE, of being more immersed in the NOW moment. And that is not always easy to do…

By being focused and able to give ones real attention to the immediate moment, or task of the moment, brings more harmony and serenity into your reality.

It appears to be a natural human tendency to be mired in the past, with vast accumulations of worries and regrets — or overwhelmed with concern and worry about the future — “What will happen… etc. etc?” Where do you fall on this spectrum?

Bringing ones mind into living more presently has lovely benefits, and will allow you to feel a greater flow of ease with life.

Some suggestions:

1. Become aware of your state of mind. Are you uncomfortably unfocused more of the time than not? Check in with your thoughts. If it is easy enough to pull your concentration to the present and hold it there, then you are on the right track. However, if doing so is a momentous challenge, then begin to pay attention to beginning to achieve a sense of mindfulness.

2. When you feel stress, disconnect and tension begin to arise, just stop, sit and breathe. Focus on your breath and take five slow, deep cleansing breaths. This is not a magic solution, but it will help bring you into the present and head off anxiety before it becomes too overwhelming.

3. Strive to speak more slowly. I know many people who seem to speak at the speed of light — I think of them as “fast talkers”. It is sometimes stressful just listening to them. Check in with yourself – do you feel you have to speak ultra fast to get your thoughts expressed? Record yourself speaking and then listen. If you find yourself to be a fast talker, allow your speech to slow down in general. Work on making statements in a more thoughtful, calm way. This can make an amazingly positive difference in your life!

4. When you are frenzied, feeling particularly hectic, you can do what I have termed talking to yourself in your Higher Self reminder voice. Let your inner guidance lead. And allow your soul-self to remind you to “slow down and pay attention” or imagine you are hearing the phrase “be right here, right now.” If you have privacy, you can speak softly out loud, “Pay attention to this moment.” or “Just be in the moment” and it is amazing how you can shift your energy and concentration with a little boost from that inner voice.

5. When you are performing a simple or mundane task such as brushing your teeth or combing your hair, avoid letting your mind wander onto tomorrow’s “To Do” list. Instead, simply BE in the moment. For instance, pay attention to brushing each tooth carefully and diligently. Or whatever task you are doing, just DO that particular task without a runaway mind.

6. Carve some time out of your busy life to schedule a “nature break.” Spend time and connect with the natural world around you. Walk barefoot in the soft grass or in the sand. It is always rejuvenating to go to a beach or a lake or body of water and just allow yourself to connect with that peaceful element of water. Take a walk in the fresh air — even a short one is revitalizing and good for you both mentally and physically. And it does help you be present.

Affirmations:

• I take time each day to connect with my breath, and this causes a peaceful, mindful shift within me.
• I do the inner work to focus on the present moment and I am empowered!
• I find beauty and solace in simple aspects of my immediate environment.