The Power of Living in the Present Moment
May 2008
Are you preoccupied, rushed and distracted in your daily routine? Do you find yourself reacting to difficult people and situations? Are you quick to label a person or situation? Have you decided 'who' you are and become closed to new possibilities? Do you worry about the future and rehash the past? These are some of the ways we keep ourselves from the present moment, and miss opportunities for awareness, connection and fulfillment.
If you practice consciously living in the present moment, your thoughts and actions will be more aligned with your values and create a more peaceful state of well being. From this empowered place you can find inspiration, creativity and manifest life changing habits.
Here are some ways to practice being present:
- Breathe. Each deep breath can be a mini meditation bringing you back to the present.
- Bring your attention to your surroundings - look at things, touch things, listen without judgment or labeling so your awareness increases
- Focus on your heartbeat and feel the aliveness in your body
- When getting in your car, breathe and sit for 20 seconds before starting your engine
- When waiting in line or in traffic, notice your irritations, breathe, then let them go
Fundamental to being in the present moment is learning acceptance. When you get angry, resentful or irritated, take a deep breath and remember: "This too shall pass." Don't dwell on challenges unless you can take specific action to address them. Check in with yourself regularly: "Am I present, am I accepting of this situation, am I resisting/complaining/judging?"
As you live more presently, your inner strength will grow to help you deal with challenges without reacting. The more present, peaceful and powerful you are, the more intuitively your thoughts and actions align with your values.
Food for thought:
- In what areas in your life would you like to be more mindful?
- How will your life be different if you are?
Would you like assistance to create more mindfulness and intention in your daily routines? Contact Andrea for a complimentary coaching call, and see how coaching can help you start moving forward!
847-971-3643 / coach@andrea-gaines.com
