Living in the Moment

Living in the moment, often referred to as mindfulness, is the practice of fully engaging with the present, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. This concept encourages individuals to experience life as it unfolds, fostering a deeper awareness of thoughts, feelings, and sensations. By centering one's attention on the here and now, it is possible to cultivate a greater appreciation of life's experiences.

It involves fully engaging with your current experiences rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

in the moment encourages a deeper appreciation for the present, enabling us to fully engage with our experiences. When we focus on the here and now, we cultivate mindfulness, which can lead to reduced stress and greater emotional well-being.

Additionally, being present allows us to build stronger relationships. By giving our complete attention to the people around us, we enhance our interactions and foster connections that enrich our lives.

Moreover, when we embrace the moment, we become more in tune with our surroundings, which can inspire creativity and personal growth. It enables us to seize opportunities without being hindered by past regrets or future anxieties.

Ultimately, living in the moment contributes to a more fulfilling and balanced life. It is a practice that encourages gratitude, resilience, and a genuine appreciation for the simplicity and beauty found in everyday experiences.Here are some practical examples to help you embrace the present:

1. Mindful Eating: When you have a meal, take the time to savour each bite. Focus on the flavours, textures, and aromas of the food. This practice not only enhances your enjoyment but also encourages healthier eating habits.

2. Nature Walks: While walking in nature, pay attention to the sights and sounds around you. Notice the colours of the leaves, the sound of birds, or the feeling of the breeze on your skinBenefits of Living in the Moment

1. Reduced Stress: Focusing on the present can help alleviate anxiety and stress associated with future uncertainties or past regrets. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, can train the mind to redirect thoughts towards the present, thereby promoting a sense of calm.
2. Enhanced Enjoyment: Engaging fully with the current moment allows individuals to savor their experiences. Whether it’s enjoying a meal, spending time with loved ones, or appreciating nature, living in the moment can enhance overall enjoyment and fulfillment.This could being fully engaged with your friends you family when out for dinner for example. Enjoying their company, food and atmosphere. Letting it all sink in and lapping it all up.

3. Improved Relationships: Being present in interactions can strengthen connections with others. Active listening and genuine engagement demonstrate respect and appreciation, which can foster deeper relationships.
4. Increased Focus: Living in the moment can enhance concentration. When attention is directed towards the task at hand, productivity and performance often improve.

Techniques to Practice Mindfulness

• Mindful Breathing: Take a few moments to focus on your breath. Pay attention to the sensation of inhaling and exhaling. This simple practice can ground you in the present.

• Body Scan: Mentally scanning your body to notice tension or discomfort can increase awareness of physical sensations. This practice encourages a connection between the mind and body.

• Nature Walks: Spending time in nature can promote mindfulness. Engaging with the sights, sounds, and smells of the environment enhances the experience of the moment.

• Gratitude Journaling: Writing down things you are grateful for each day can shift your focus from what’s lacking to the abundance present in your life.

• Living

Challenges to Living in the Moment

While the concept of living in the moment offers various benefits, it can be challenging to implement in a fast-paced, distraction-filled world. Constant connectivity through technology can divert attention away from the present. Additionally, personal stressors and societal pressures may create obstacles to mindfulness. Ways to overcome this is by intentionally setting time aside and planning your day to incorporate some mindfulness techniques.

What does wellbeing mean to you?

Wellbeing definition: a state of comfortable, healthy or happy.

For me wellbeing isn’t just one or the other, rather than an culmination of mental and physical wellness within a healthy nurturing in environment.

I’ve come to realise that a balance of the the all above is important in contributing to my wellbeing.

The balancing of many factors can contribute to a positive state of mind. Which can include but not limited to balancing work life, family commitments and hobbies.

Where some of these are not in our control, our reaction to them is….

So you had a stressful day at work, caused by high workloads and unrealistic expectations.

In this situations, there are 2 choices, let the day effect the rest of the evening which then spills over into family time and writing off the remaining hours before bed. OR take charge of the way you react and feel and decide to let the day brush over you, just like water off a ducks back.

How you say?

Well, decide that what ever day you had, will not effect your mood and the best way is to give the events and day zero thought. Instead look forward to the rest of the evening.

Plan something exciting, either a dinner the family love or can get involved with.

A long relaxing and calming aromatherapy bath. Snuggling on the sofa, lighting your favourite candles with a glass of what ever tickles your fancy.

It can be anything that makes your soul sing. With practise it will become easier and second nature, I speak from experience.

Sometimes what also gets me through a bumpy day are little pieces of happiness, from an aromatherapy roll, my favourite smelling hand cream, that perfume that just reminds me of holiday or cuddles with my cat. (Especially with working from home hehe) These are just some of my ways to get re focused to that happy place no matter what is happening around me.

I’ve found that has a routine has really helped structure my day, preventing room for any unhealthy thoughts, snacking and boredom, especially during lockdown.

I have started working out 5 times a day, having a break during the week and 1 day at the weekend, this way I feel well rested. A physical activity can be whatever you enjoy. A gym type workout isn’t for everyone. Try yoga, dancing and even gardening. Yes, I did say gardening. Don’t knock it until you tried it, it can be quite tiring, who would have thought how much of a work out those thighs and arms get just by weeding.

Finally ensuring your home reflects a little joy back to you. Have fun doing some simple re decorating. It doesn’t have to be expensive, buying a large plant and wall art wall art can make all the difference to a room. Even adding some lovely candles and candle holders to cosy up any evening.

I try my bed to keep the bedroom clean and tidy, tidy room and tidy mind is a true saying, well for me anyway. I find myself having a better night sleep.

Also some small actions in the morning, such as making the bed, folding the clothes and keeping the kitchen clean really sets my day up. These are within your control and can really make a difference to the way you feel.