For the past 36 days, I've embarked on an experiment that has fundamentally transformed my world. I stopped watching television, and one of the nine things that have evolved in my life is the ability to live in the present moment. It may sound trivial, but I've come to realize that most of us are not truly living in the present moment; we are escaping it.
Living in the present moment can be a challenging task, especially for those who find themselves constantly plagued by thoughts about the past and future. Many people often find themselves struggling to stay present in the moment mentally, which can lead to a range of uncomfortable feelings and experiences. Believe me I know… it’s been 36 days and counting!
One of the most significant challenges of living in the present moment mentally is the constant barrage of thoughts that flood our minds and not just that when we allow ourselves to be present emotions can flood in too and man is that painful and uncomfortable. We may find ourselves worrying about past mistakes or future uncertainties, causing us to feel anxious and stressed. These thoughts can be overwhelming and distracting, making it challenging to focus on the present moment.
Another challenge of living in the present moment mentally is the constant need to multitask. We live in a fast-paced world where we are bombarded with a never-ending stream of information and distractions.I found myself several times reaching for my phone…. “Oh but wait I gave up social media too, now what?” We may find ourselves constantly checking our phones, responding to emails, or rushing to complete our daily tasks. It’s weird not having anything to do. Boring at best, painful at worst. This constant need to multitask can make it challenging to stay present and focused on the task at hand.
When we stay present in the moment, we are forced to confront our feelings and emotions, which can be uncomfortable and challenging. I will say though it is one of the fastest way to healing. It’s one of the fastest way to opening up your spiritual gifts, and connect with your soul and the very fiber of your being.
I will say that living in the present moment mentally can also be uncomfortable because it requires us to let go of control. We may feel a sense of comfort and security in planning for the future or dwelling on the past. However, when we live in the present moment, we are forced to let go of control and trust in the universe.
Here are some tips on how to be in the present moment:
Focus on your breath: One of the easiest ways to bring yourself back to the present moment is to focus on your breath. Take a few deep breaths and notice the sensations in your body as you inhale and exhale. This can help calm your mind and bring you into the present moment.
Engage your senses: Engage your senses by noticing what you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel. Take a moment to observe your surroundings and appreciate the beauty around you. This can help you feel more connected to the present moment and the world around you.
Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is a practice that involves being fully present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. You can practice mindfulness by simply observing your thoughts and emotions without judgment. This can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings and reduce stress and anxiety.
Let go of distractions: One of the biggest obstacles to being present is distractions. Try to let go of distractions such as your phone or computer and focus on the task at hand. If you find yourself getting distracted, gently bring yourself back to the present moment and refocus your attention.
Practice gratitude: Gratitude is a powerful tool for cultivating happiness and contentment. Take a moment to appreciate the things you have in your life and the people around you. This can help you feel more connected to the present moment and reduce stress and anxiety.
Being in the present moment takes practice, but it can have a profound impact on your life. By bringing your attention and awareness to the present moment, you can reduce stress, anxiety, and dissatisfaction with life. So take a deep breath, engage your senses, and enjoy the beauty of the present moment.