For many, the art of staying present can be difficult at the best of times and impossible at the worst. Luckily, there are a number of ways to improve your ability to remain in the now that are both relaxing and free. Here are 3 tools to help keep you in the moment.
Meditate
If unobserved, a mind can rapidly wander from one topic to another seemingly without connection. Before you know it, thoughts ranging from climate control to animal rights to which vaping juice flavors are the best will leave you caught in a whirlwind of unrelated thoughts. Fortunately, meditation has been shown to alleviate a restless mind, promoting emotional health and well-being.
While you may have heard meditation is difficult, requiring that you sit up straight and breathe a certain way, all the while staying focused and “thought-free,” this simply isn’t true. Indeed, getting into a calming state of mental flow doesn’t need to be the step-by-step, hard-and-fast process it’s been portrayed as.
Simply settling yourself somewhere comfortable is enough. Instead of stressing whether your breathing is exactly how you’ve seen the “masters” do it, just pay attention to your body. Let it inhale and exhale naturally.
Not interested in closing your eyes? You don’t have to! Watching the flame of a candle or the passing of a few billowy clouds can be an excellent way to soothe your mind, keeping you better grounded and in the moment.
Take Walks
Another excellent way to stay present is by spending time outside. Taking a leisurely stroll among flourishing greenery can have a soothing effect on the mind, which can also leave you refreshed. So the next time you find yourself in a thought storm, clear your mind by heading outside for some fresh air and beautiful landscapes.
Want to get even more out of the experience? Try leaving your mobile device at home. Without this distraction, you’ll be better able to hear, see, smell, touch, and possibly, taste all the pleasant diversions nature has to offer.
Color
Not only has coloring been proven to reduce stress and anxiety, but it can also keep you present. Something colorful and engaging to focus on, especially with an end result you can see, will keep you rooted in the now and loving it. What’s more, coloring projects improve focus as they require much of your attention to deftly complete.
At the end of the day, too much thinking isn’t helpful. Finding time for quiet, outdoor strolls, and creative projects can help keep you in the moment.
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