The Eternal Now

All we can truly experience is the present moment. 

​At the start of a new year I often contemplate the concept of time. The time of the year just completed, and what is coming in the time of the year to come. So often my mind focuses on something that has not happened  yet: an idea, a list, a wish, a dream. I plan and think about all the ways in which the future might turn out. Admittedly my mind often goes to negative outcomes before I can catch myself and redirect my thoughts. Equally as often, my mind will remember the past with longing or regret, both creating negative impressions and taking me out of experiencing what is happening right in front of me.  

All we can truly experience is the present moment, the eternal now. If I am remembering or planning, I am oblivious to the magic mundanity of the now, to truly being present with what is happening, whether I am driving, washing dishes or having a conversation with someone. In the now, it is difficult to feel regret or worry. Even if I am having a challenging conversation, I can feel my pysiologic response to what is happening NOW. Rather than pushing away difficult emotions, feel them in the moments they occur allows them to pass more quickly.   

Try this with me-sit back in your chair with your feet on the floor. Bring your focus into your body, what is the first thing that you notice? Is it pain or something negative? If so, don't judge yourself. Feel all the places where you touch the chair or floor, feel that you are sitting. Feel the temperature difference between your face and the center of your torso. Feel where your body is relaxed and where you are holding yourself up. You are connected to the NOW. How many distracting thoughts tried to distract you from noticing your body? Was it easier to stay connected to the NOW when your mind had a focal point? 

There are numerous anchors that keep the mind in the present moment. Just like we train our muscles to move our bodies safely, we must also train our minds to stay mindful. Come back to the blog in the coming months for more simple mindfulness techniques.