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Living in The Moment
by Marisela Meraz
Too often we find ourselves in the midst of a balancing game with work, family, social life, and finding time for doing things alone. Let’s face it: we are constantly thinking about the next thing. Whether it’s an upcoming work meeting, a family birthday party, or paying that credit card bill, our minds are occupied 99% of the time. With our minds distracted throughout the day, it’s hard to suddenly stop what we’re doing and think about the present. However, it can be done! Here are some ways you can start living in the moment today:
Be aware of the present
Picture the last time you were dancing in a room of people you didn’t know. Think about how you felt while you awkwardly moved your body and nervously looked around the room to see who was looking at you. When you are put in a situation that makes you anxious–like dancing or giving a speech–focusing on your anxiety only heightens the situation. Instead, stop thinking too hard about whatever it is that you’re doing and just let yourself go in that moment. Be present and pay less attention to those anxious thoughts running through your mind.
Savor the present
A few months ago I was visiting the city of Florence, Italy and I phoned my mom and told her, “It’s so beautiful here! I can’t wait to come back!” She replied, “But you’re there now–enjoy it!” Looking back now, I see that I was failing to appreciate where I was in that moment. Often, we forget to relish what is happening now and let those moments pass by without a second thought. We are often in a rush and have to drink our coffee on the go, hurriedly walk to our car or train so as not to be late, or eat our lunch while standing. We forget to savor what happens in our lives because we let them pass us by. So take the time to enjoy the big and little things in your life and you will begin experiencing more joy and happiness in your life.
Practice the art of acceptance
We have all dealt with pain in our lives in one form or another–whether it was a death in the family, heartbreak, depression, or losing a job–and our first instinct is to avoid the emotions that come along with that pain. We think that by avoiding those feelings of sadness or anger, it will be easier to heal and move on. But, learning to accept those feelings is the key to practicing the art of acceptance. Instead, let those emotions be. Trying to change the present moment is only going to exhaust and frustrate you. Being more accepting to the present moment, no matter how bad it is, reminds you that some things are beyond our control. It’s better to just face those emotions, and all that life brings, as it is.
