Power of Now

​The present moment has many gifts to offer.  It fills us with gratitude, love and compassion.  It deepens our personal relationships and connects us to the places around us.  It is now – not the past where we hold grudges and pain.  It is now – not the future where worry and fear of what’s next lie.  It is “now” that gives us the greatest pleasure in life.
 
Sitting in the car rider line at my children’s school, I tend to fill up that time waiting with work or studying.  Today, I decided to just sit and be.  The moment wasn’t profound.  However, because I chose to be present, I noticed how rain drops create a unique pattern on the window and how despite the grey and gloomy day, the leaves still glowed brilliant oranges and yellows.  Sitting in silence calmed my nervous system as my breath deepened.  At first, my mind jumped from thought to thought like commercials on tv.  After several minutes, I found space between them, and honestly, seemed to forget about some of them.  This being present practice was a wakeful meditation for me.
 
We can practice mindfulness in any aspect of our life at any time.  Here are a few to get you started during the holiday season.
 
PRESENCE Gift Ideas:

1. Just take a shower.  Get in the shower, and truly experience being right there in the shower without daydreaming or creating a to-do list.
2. Listen fully.  Put down your phone, and listen to the person who’s given his/her time to be with you.  
3. Enjoy a candlelit dinner.  Make a meal, and light some candles.  Invite others to join you or dine alone.  No music.  No television.  No distractions.  Enjoy your delicious meal.
4. Watch a movie or television show.  Park your other electronics (phone, laptop, tablet) in another room.  Give your full attention to the movie.
5. Savor a cup of tea or coffee.  (or warm lemon water!)  Grab a cup and sit outdoors or by the window and take in everything around you.
6. Don’t plan every minute of every day.  There is a real joy in being adventurous and discovering something new.  

Sit by a fire.  Wrap up in a cozy blanket and watch the flames dance and flicker.