On Being Present
Every day offers a chance to learn something new. We have the opportunity to make meaningful connections, create something beautiful, and to share some light every new day. What a gift! …
Real talk though, staying present can be kinda hard. I know this personally… as I can get fairly spacey ;). We all have those moments of distraction, worry, overthinking, bugga-boo menial things of which don’t even matter, etc. etc.
Imagine being free of little judgments, silly stresses, procrastination, and such.
Guess what, this is Being.
One of my teacher’s shared an insight in a Goddess workshop. Being is… alive, creative, receptive, it is feeling and expression. We all have this trait… the ability to be fully present.
Sometimes we just need a reminder. ;)
Here are some tools to help bring you back, to what matter’s most.
Keep your favorite read close by
I love picking up an inspirational book that resonates with my daily vibes. These books can be the perfect medicine you need at the given time. I like to keep a few books by my desk for referral when I need them, ‘like a good friend.’
Heart Talk, by Clea Wade:"And if you would like to treat this book less like a book and more like a friend or a companion, I would like that very much."“Get honest with yourself. Be the person you are the clearest with. Be the person you are the most fearless with. These are the seeds that turn your life into a garden of authenticity.”
Make time for a pause
A breathe of fresh air is key. When all the hustle around us can’t stop, WE can.
Go outside even if just for a moment and breathe 3 deep easy breaths.
Sitting at your desk, lengthen your spine, close your eyes, breathe 3 deep breaths.
Take a short walk and notice nature’s beauty, by actively noticing the amazing happenings in nature we can let go of the things that don’t matter.
At the stop light let yourself enjoy the break ;) simply stop.
Everyday, allow yourself to pause, whenever, wherever you need :)
Movement
Like dogs we need to run. We need to move our bodies! Find an athletic outlet to re-fuel your body, mind, and soul. Yoga, dance, jogging, hiking, lifting weights, jujitsu, boxing. Whatever’s clever! Listen to your interests while also pushing yourself to try new activities. Wellness involves nutrition, exercise, and a positive attitude. Find your way. Show up and make it happen!
Journal, paint, use your hands and creativity to make something
Make something that unveils anything you are holding. I like to write. Journaling whatever I need to get off my chest and then looked at after with perspective. By making art we release and sometimes we can create pretty cool things. Try something new! Tap into your creativity and see that your unique life story produces!
Connect with a friend, an elder, or another kindred spirit
Sometimes our barista may offer the meaningful connection, that amidst the hustle and bustle lightens our day. And by connecting with them, being open to connecting, you raise higher vibes. A smile brings more smiles. Try making positive connections with others… this nurtures the present moment.
Let go…
I had a mediation teacher say in class once that thoughts (in meditation) are good. These are just part of being human. While in meditation allow your thoughts to arise, accept them, witness them, then… let them go. This idea helped me understand what meditation is really all about. At the very seed, meditation is simply allowing yourself to be detached from any outside pressure or need to act, instead, just being, like a tree in the wind. Next time you are in a yoga class, holding a pose and trying trying trying to stay focused, use this technique: follow your breath and use your breath to stay grounded like the roots of a tree. As thoughts come in (your to do list, remembering that cute guy you passed in the hallway, etc.) allow the thoughts to come in, notice them, then let them go like the wind blowing by. Meditating is the experience of not doing anything but being (the most amazing thing to do) ;). We typically are always “doing” things, fired up with an agenda or with simply a lot on our plate. Meditation gives us the chance to let go of the “fluff” and truly accept where we are, just as we are. Now that’s called presence.