Be More Present
One of my teachers always refers to the quote ↓
"Before enlightenment, Chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment, Chop wood, carry water."
We tend to get caught up in the destination or the end point, thinking the work ends once we arrive. But once we arrive the work that got us there doesn't stop, it keeps going. We will need to keep doing the work that got us there to keep moving forward.
Tom Barrett explains
It got me thinking about my practice.
Knowing my work in this practice is never done or complete. It won't matter how many hours of "training" I receive, how many years of practice, it will never end. To be completely present will help this work be easier day after day, year after year, decade after decade. In the end, the destination isn’t what matters but it’s the process of becoming more present in your life so you can enjoy the journey.
Meditation exercise to help you...
For 2 minute morning afternoon and night find time for a breathing Exercise. Start by sitting in a comfortable position with a nice long spine. A supportive chair works or you can sit on the ground and allow the wall to support your back. Close the eyes and start to feel the breath come in and out of the body. Explore the subtle movements in the rib cage. Gently close the mouth and start to bring the breath in and out of the nose. Allow the breath be audible. Now allow your focus to be on the sound the breath. Remain here for two minutes focusing on the subtle movements in the rib cage and the sound of the breath.
-Nicole
Others find the ability to be present easier in different settings. Find where you feel the most comfortable and most at peace. You may find this to be in nature. You may find this to be in a local cafe. Taking the time to relax or live more mindfully could also mean that you are focused on the now instead of living in the past or future.
HOW TO BE MORE PRESENT?
Two minutes a day of regular practice: Two minutes a day of stretching and body relaxation will change your life. Start small and increase time as you become more adept with your needs.
Mindfulness bells or weights: Stimuli that target other parts of the body can be helpful when trying to become more present in the world and things of the now.
Reflect or Journal: Identifying the good and bad will help you learn more about yourself in different situations, allowing you to grow more as a person!
Notice your surroundings: Use the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 method; identify five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.
Spend time with those who make you feel happy and fulfilled: Find those who love and appreciate you at your highs and lows.
Breathing exercises: Find a process that works best for you. Not everything works the same for everybody, try out different breathing techniques.
Focus on one thing at a time: do not multitask. Give yourself time to process situations and events.
Practicing mindfulness meditation: Taking time in your day for yourself to meditate and become grounded is OKAY!
Do yoga! Yoga helps you be more present by focusing on your breathing.