In simple terms, the present moment is this exact very moment. The here and now. For you, the reader of this blog post, the present moment is that you are reading. Perhaps you’re at home, reading on your computer, sipping on tea, with your children playing in the background, perhaps you’re reading on the subway, awaiting your next stop. Or perhaps you’re at work, reading while you take a break. Wherever you are, life is happening, and you are experiencing reality in this
very moment.
Unlike the past, which is a memory, or the future, which is just a possibility, the present is real and tangible. The present is where you can act, feel, and be.
It is a state of being.
So, why does being present matter? Throughout all of history, humans have never faced as many distractions as they do today. Sources of attention-grabbing stimuli are around us all the time. Distractions such the news, advertising, social media, entertainment; Even our thoughts, feelings, and worries distract us from the here and now. It is no wonder that stress and anxiety have been on the rise, there is so much always happening around us, it can feel like were being pulled in so many directions at once.
Knowing the difference between what is in your control, and what is out of your control allows you to direct your attention and energy to what can really make a difference. Focusing on the here and now, allows you to see your reality more clearly, for what it is. In this space we may be called to take action, or we may be called to accept the moment for what it is- in some cases that is “doing” absolutely nothing. Life is unfolding in every moment sometimes in obvious and beautiful ways and other times in more subtle ways, yet still beautiful. Being present allows us to appreciate these moments, rather than letting them slip unnoticed.
Here are practical tips to be more present:
Gratitude Journal: Spend a few minutes each day writing down what you’re grateful for. A gratitude journal shifts your focus from what’s lacking in your life to what you already have. Expressing gratitude is also linked to better sleep, improved mood, and a stronger sense of overall well-being. Read more about this HERE.
Digital Detox: Turn off your notifications and set time aside each day to be away from your digital devices. Implementing this an hour before going to sleep and an hour after waking up, seems to be a helpful rule of thumb for folks. Notice what is different in these technology-free moments.
Time in Nature: Nature offers rich, sensory experiences- bird songs, the rustling of leaves, woodsy smells, feet in the grass- these senses naturally draw your attention to the here and now. Time in nature allows you to slow down to the rhythm of the present environment and take a break from the hustle and bustle. There are many simple ways to connect to nature. Maybe it is enjoying a meal outside, going for a stroll in the neighborhood, or making a seasonal flower bouquet.
Breathe: Being present, can be as simple as bringing our attention to our breath. Our breath is intricately connected to every part of our body. Slow, intentional breathing synchs together the mind and body, and signals to your body that it is safe to relax. Try taking 3 deep breaths every so often throughout your day or try a mindfulness app such as Open or Calm. Connecting with our breath reminds us that we are alive and when we have breath, we have options.
You’ve probably tried at least one of these and even if you haven’t, there is no bad time to pick one up now. It is practically impossible to always be present, and that is okay! Setting the intention to be more present will already make this way-of-being more accessible to you. With practice and time, being present will come more naturally, allowing you to feel more at ease and at peace.
