Time to Just Be
"At the center of your being you have the answer; you know who you are and you know what you want."
– Lao Tzu
I’ve just returned from an adventure in Alaska! Wow, the beauty, the vastness, and the delicious food! It was such a fantastic time of unwinding, spending time in nature, and getting the opportunity to just be. We took beautiful hikes and I loved the time on the ferry; just soaking in the beautiful views, observing birds and all the creatures in the sea.
Practicing mindfulness doesn’t just mean time sitting in meditation. Mindfulness can be practiced during the small moments of our day, just absorbing whatever is happening around us. On this trip, I enjoyed the ferry rides, watching the scenery float by, the scent of the sea air, the feeling of the cold wind on my face, the sounds of the boat and gulls overhead, and the salty taste of the sea mist. Just breathing and noticing creates a profound sense of calm.
How can you incorporate a small moment of mindfulness in your day?
Love and adventure!
Nicole
Practice at Home:
Taking the time out to just be is a simple way to incorporate small moments of mindfulness in your day. It can be as short as just a minute or two and the benefits of greater focus, nervous system regulation, and increased self-compassion will add up over time.
Start by taking 3 deep breaths. If that’s all you have time for, good job remembering to take time out for some deep, calming breaths!
Just notice yourself in this moment, whatever you are doing. What are you sensing with your 5 senses? Let judgements, thoughts, and anxieties pass without engaging. This may be difficult at first, but it will get easier.
Practice this micro-mindfulness exercise each day and try it out at different moments. Maybe when you get out of bed in the morning, as you drink your coffee, eat lunch, while waiting for a meeting to start? There are so many times and places to add in a moment of mindfulness.
And have fun! We build habits when they are pleasurable. If you don’t enjoy it, you won’t do it!
