“If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present.” -Lao Tzu
Staying in the present moment is easier said than done, right? There are so many distractions. Circumstances and responsibilities like, work demands, family, kids, television, social media, music, friends, etc. all demand a certain amount of attention from us. It makes it difficult to stay in the present moment. Mindfulness is like a muscle; it must be worked out to get stronger.
One way to combat anxiety, depression, limiting beliefs is to stay present and be an observer of your thoughts and remain in the present moment. This will also benefit you greatly, not only by making you happier, with building resilience, dealing with difficult situations, reducing stress, and having control over our emotions and reactions.
“The present moment is the only thing where there is no time. It is the point between past and future. It is always there and it is the only point we can access in time. Everything that happens, happens in the present moment. Everything that ever happened and will ever happen can only happen in the present moment. It is impossible for anything to exist outside of it.” – Myrko Thum
Practice with this!
Let’s practice staying in the present moment with mindful eating. This is a great way to build up the mindfulness muscle.
- The next time you eat- eliminate all distractions. Turn off the TV. Put your phone away.
- Sit and engage all of your senses. Sight, smell, taste, touch and sound. Focus on the experience you are having in that moment.
- Check in with yourself. How are you feeling?
- Your mind may wander, but bring it back to where you are and what you are doing at this very moment.
- Rinse and Repeat.
Try practicing staying in the present moment throughout your day. Check in with yourself, especially when you feel like you are going through the motions. It will get easier and easier and you’ll see your world expand.