The Power of Living in the Present Moment
It seems as though many of us are either living in the past or looking to the future, but not living in the present moment. While it is okay to think about the past or the future, we need to remember that it is even more important to live in the now. When we don't, it can lead to stress and anxiety, and we don't have the happiness and comfort we should have and that we deserve. Abraham Maslow once said, “The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness,” and he was absolutely correct. The trick is to learn how to be in the present in order to achieve peace and happiness. This is what we are going to talk about today. Let's get started.
What is Living in the Present?
When you live in the present, you are aware of what is going on at all times. Remember, you only live once, so you need to make the best of it while you are on this planet. We can't forget about the past, but we can do our best to leave it where it belongs, which is in the past. We can't worry about the future, because it hasn't even happened yet. Our focus should always be on the present moment, or at least as much as possible.
Living in the present means you are actually living life. You are not dwelling on things that happened in the past, and you are not stressing over what may or may not happen in the future. You are happy, for the most part, because you are taking life one day at a time and not worrying about the past or the future.
Reasons to Live in the Present
When you live in the present, you will be able to be thankful for every good thing that comes your way. If your happiness comes only from memories and hopes, you won't be able to enjoy what is taking place in your life right now. The old saying, “take time to stop and smell the roses” is more than just a saying. It should be a way of life for all of us. Let's take a look at some of the best reasons to start living in the present.
You Can't Control the Future
The only moments you can control are those that are happening right now. No one knows what will happen in the future, and the future is not something that any of us can control. Living in the present will help you to stay focused on what is happening in your life at this present moment.
Peace is in the Present
Worrying about the future or living in the past usually only brings stress and anxiety, neither of which do any of us need. When you are living in the present, you won't have nearly as much stress and anxiety. Your mind will be clear, so you can deal with what is going on now instead of worrying about things that already happened or have yet to happen.
You Let Go of Expectations
When we have expectations, we often end up getting hurt or disappointed. Sure, it is great to have some expectations in life to have something to look forward to. But, we tend to build things up, only to be let down later on. Let go of your expectations by living in the now, and not worrying about what the future may or may not hold.
You Stop Waiting for Things that May Not even Happen
We've all caught ourselves waiting for better things to happen in our lives, and this is fine. But, it is not healthy to constantly look to the future instead of living in the present. When you are able to live in the now, you will stop waiting and start enjoying what you have right now. In the long run, this is going to make you much happier overall.
Here are a few more reasons why it is important to live in the present:
You are grateful for every day
Improved relationships
Fewer worries
Improved productivity
Making better choices
Ways to Live in the Present Moment
Now it is time to look at some ways that you can live in the present moment and enjoy a much happier life.
De-Clutter Your Life
Throughout the years, we amass possessions that we don't really need. Get rid of the things that are associated with your past, and this will help you to make peace with those memories and move on to bigger and better things.
Smile More Often
Start each day with a smile. Remember, you are in control of your life, and your attitude. When you have an optimistic outlook on each and every new day, you will soon find that you are more optimistic overall.
Forgive those Who have Hurt You
Dwelling on past hurts is not the way to enjoy a happy life or be able to live in the present. Forgive those past hurts and move on. Choose to live in the present rather than dwell on the past.
Focus on New Solutions for Your Problems
The answers you came up with yesterday may not necessarily be the answers you need today, or in the future. Focus on coming up with new ways to do things and forget about how you used to do things.
Work on Conquering Addictions
Addictions can really hold us back and keep us from truly enjoying life. Now is the time to start working at conquering any addictions you may have, whether it is smoking, drinking, drugs, etc. Ask for help, and do whatever it takes to become whole again. Then, you can enjoy the present without addictions.
Conclusion
Yesterday is gone, and tomorrow hasn't happened. It is time to stop dwelling on the past and worrying about the future. The sooner you begin to live for the moment, the sooner you will find that your life is happier, and your mind will be open to many new and wonderful things you never thought possible.
A Mindful Nature Walk Meditation
It isn't always easy to be in the present moment. Worrying about the future or dwelling on the past make it difficult to be in the now and truly appreciate what is happening today. Luckily, there are things you can do in order to help you have a better appreciation for the present, and to live in. For instance, meditation can be a huge help, especially if you are communing with nature while you do it. Today we are going to talk about a mindful nature walk meditation that will help you to better be able to live in the present. Let's get started.
Take a Hike
Your mindful nature walk will be a lovely hike in a peaceful area. Choose a spot that you know and that is safe for walking alone. A nature trail is a great idea, or any place where you feel you can directly commune with nature.
Before You Get Started...
Before you start your hike, take a couple of minutes to get into the now, or the present moment. Close your eyes, and take three deep breaths. Make a sighing sound as you exhale, and try to make that sound longer with each breath. Pay attention to each breath, and take the next when it is ready. Taking these pauses between breaths gets you into a natural breathing rhythm, and then take time to tune into your surroundings.
Engage Your Senses
Throughout your hike, stop frequently to engage your senses. This is going to help relax your body and mind. Stop focusing on your thoughts, and just enjoy being in the present.
Here are some tips to help:
Look Around – Turn all the way around, slowly, and look at everything around you, from the patterns in the sky to the trees, grass, water, textures, and colors. Take a minute to sit or lie down to really take it all in.
Listen – There will be many wonderful sounds around you. While you are stopping to look around, don't forget to listen as well.
Touch Things – Notice how the sun and air feel on your skin. Pick up objects with interesting textures, such as rocks or branches. Focus on your sense of touch.
Use Your Nose – Close your eyes, and be aware of your sense of smell. Let the smells of the area come to you. Some will be strong, others will be subtle.
Enjoy the Silence – This is a great time to just enjoy the peace and quiet, and only pay attention to the sounds and enjoy the solitude and being in the present.
Conclusion
Any time you are out in nature, remember to use the above tips to help you to be in the present. Engage your senses and tune in to your surroundings and your own body. The more you are able to do this, the more relaxed you will become, and it will be easier to live in the now rather than focusing on the past or the future.
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