In this uncertain time, and even in times of certainty, we need to remember to take time for ourselves.
We love to plan, we like to know what we are going to do in the future, we set goals, and we even worry. After all, we’re human. But, how can we live in the moment? And should we? When we live in the moment, we pay attention to the present and what is happening right now. We observe, listen, and are active participants in our moments.
When times are turbulent, this centering activity is even more important. Remove yourself from what you can’t control and focus on what you can control. Is it important to plan, worry, set goals, and think what is going to happen? Yes, but living in the moment can be good for you as well. So, how do we do this?
- Be present in the moment no matter what you are doing. Whether you are taking a walk, doing laundry, cleaning, playing with your kids or grandkids, talking with a friend on the phone, reading a book – try your best to be present. Try to do only one thing at a time and relish everything about the moment. Slow down and take your time.
- Take 5 to 10 minutes a day and do absolutely nothing. Breathe, look around, meditate, and just be with yourself. This may help you get ready for whatever else you have to do.
- Really listen to someone you are talking with. Focus on the conversation.
- When you eat, just eat. Smell, taste and savor the food you are eating.
- Pay attention to the senses you use when doing tasks, whether it is brushing your teeth, putting on clothes, taking a shower, or walking the dog. Focus on using all of your senses!
- Try not to be impatient when waiting in a line or at a traffic light. Instead be grateful you have a chance to slow down and be observant of the world around you. What can you notice that you wouldn’t normally take time to see or hear?
- Laugh and smile often. When you laugh and smile it becomes contagious. Not only will you feel better, but you may inspire others to feel better. After all, laughing is a great stress reliever! Call a friend and reminisce or chat with your children or grandchildren and share some jokes.
- Practice random acts of kindness. This helps you stay in the moment at hand and may make someone else’s day! Send a card, say thank you, smile at anyone you see, drop off some baked goods, send someone a gift card, order take out, pay for someone’s groceries, you get the idea. Right now, our country is in dire need of random acts of kindness!
No matter what is going on in your life and in our world, try to live in the moment and be present. We can take control of the moment we have before us right now. All of us here at Burgie MediaFusion are working hard to practice this daily, if only for a few moments. We wish you peace and a positive moment every day.