During our first puppy training class with our black and white Siberian Husky Shadow, our trainer mentioned how dogs can only comprehend the present moment. When I heard this beautiful nonchalant puppy fact, I fell in love with our fur baby even more.
Living fully in the present is the ideal state I strive for in my life. In fact, it’s been a recurring birthday resolution for me, especially with how time seems to speed up the older we get. How lucky for dogs to naturally live in a tuned in carpe diem state.
What does it mean to be present?
To me, being present means being fully aware and receptive to everything happening right now. It means being captivated and giving your undivided attention to the present moment. I think Eckhart Tolle says it best with his quote below.
“Realize deeply that the present moment is all you have. Make the NOW the primary focus of your life.”
You can’t change the past or control the future, so why dwell on either? Reflecting on the past is totally fine, but living in the past or mulling over regrets isn’t healthy and can be dangerous to your emotional well-being. At the same time, it’s futile to spend too much time and effort agonizing over the future or the “what ifs.”
Sure, uncertainty is scary, but it’s pointless to waste valuable time stressing over something that’s quite frankly out of your control. This isn’t to say it’s not important to have goals, aspirations and plans. But rather, learn to relax, embrace the right now and enjoy the ride.
A mantra I use frequently when I get overwhelmed with life or find my thoughts swirling is “you can only control what you can control.” Rather than getting worked up in worry, pause and turn your attention to things you can control. A minor shift in your thoughts can make a huge impact in your life. And, hey, if your present isn’t working for you, you have the power to change it.
Why is being present important?
Being present can change your whole life experience. It’s incredibly important for mental wellness since it helps you to slow down, to let go and to keep things in perspective.
To me, it’s important because it’s so easy to get caught up in the insignificant details of our life. Sometimes you need to simply remind yourself how awesome it is to be alive. I don’t know about you but I don’t want to reflect back on a period of my life and only remember being “busy.” However, without awareness, it’s really easy to let our precious time slip through our fingers as we hurriedly pass through the present.
6 Ways to Slow Down, Tune in and be Present
Like most things in life, being present isn’t easy and it requires conscious practice. Below are six ways that may help you live more presently.
Connect with your breathe. If you’re feeling stressed, try taking a few deep belly breathes. Breathe in for a count of six and exhale for the same length for a few minutes. By simply becoming aware of the rise and fall of your belly, you’re able to connect to the present moment, and calm down in the process.
Become a curious observer. Connect with the present by taking in everything happening around you – without judgement and without labels. Become fully aware of your five senses and perhaps experience the moment in a new way.
Do a simple task fully. Perform a mundane task, like emptying the dishwasher, laundry, making the bed or walking your dog, intentionally and mindfully. Rather than zoning out or rushing to get it done, slow down and pay close attention to what you’re doing.
Meditate. Our thoughts become our lives. It’s just as important to exercise, train and detox your mind as it is your body. Meditation is simply a way to train your mind.Start small. Try taking 60 seconds every morning while your coffee brews or water boils for tea to take a seat in a comfortable position, soften your gaze, sit tall and let your mind quiet. Gradually increase the time over time.
Start a gratitude journal. Every day, week or month, jot down three to five things that you’re grateful for. By taking the time to acknowledge what’s meaningful in your life, it may encourage you to savor your time with the things, people, places and experiences you’re grateful for.
Practice yoga (obviously). Yoga is an excellent tool to help you connect your mind, body and spirit. By taking time to center yourself and increase awareness of your body, thoughts and feelings, you can’t help but become more mindful.
While we may never be as blissfully present as dogs, I encourage you to try and live a little more presently and hopefully become happier humans. With that said, kick back, relax and enjoy the now, y’all.
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