Five years ago I added running to my
cardiovascular workout. I can still
vividly remember that first time when I was approaching the endpoint (about one
half mile away) and how each step towards it seemingly placed me further away. It reminded me of the movie scenes that would
have the extending hallways that prevented the actor from reaching the end. That moment was very frustrating, not to
mention I was very tired. In addition,
any momentum and composure that I had built during the run quickly dissipated. Fortunately for me, I completed the run! Subsequently, I quickly sought advice from
seasoned runners in how to handle that situation. Each one told me to try looking down a few
feet ahead instead of focusing on the endpoint in the distance. The next time I ran, I tried this technique
and it worked perfectly! Also, I noticed
that a lot of people who were running used it. As I continued to use this technique, I
realized that it helped me to stay in the moment. While being in the moment and achieving
clarity of mind, I was able to focus on my breathing and form. Also, I was able to appreciate the
environment immediately around me. This
helped me to relax, which simultaneously gave me energy to complete my run without
the frustration.
This story reminds me of how easy it is
to lose focus and allow our minds to drift from the task at hand or dwell in
the past/future where we have little to no control (which can be very
debilitating). Although we make plans to
reach our destination (future), it’s really about the journey (present) where the
real jewels of life’s experiences can be found.
Peace and harmony lies with ‘Being/Living in the Moment’.
One of Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary’s
definitions for ‘Moment’ is the present
time.
How does one know when they’re in the
moment? Generally speaking, a person is
in the moment when their breathing is smooth and steady and their emotions/feelings
are calm. Also, the mind is clear and
reflexes are sharp while everything around them seemingly is moving in slow
motion. This description is commonly referred
to in sports as ‘being in the zone’. Not limited to sports, being in the moment
can happen in all aspects of one’s life.
The next question is how does one get ‘in
the moment’? I refer you to my first post entitled, ‘Breathing’. In this post, I describe the ‘Pot Belly’
breathing technique. When being active,
an adjustment to this technique is necessary.
Instead of alternating the opening and closing of each nostril, it’s suggested
to breathe through both simultaneously (If running, breathing through the mouth
or combination of nose and mouth will render the desired result). There are other techniques but I find this
one to be very effective and the easiest.
With practice, you will become efficient with this technique where this
will become the only way that you breathe.
As it pertains to diet, exercise and
mental/spiritual health, being in the moment has the following benefits:
* Better performance due to being
focused.
* Improved listening and memory skills
due to being ‘present-minded’.
* Better conflict resolution for one
tends not to get emotionally triggered.
* More persistence and ability to learn
for one has a tendency to be more patient to work through difficulties.
* Wiser and clearer decisions (no longer
reacting out of habit).
* Improved physical and mental health
(less stress, lower blood pressure and sharper mind).
* More laughter (which has healing
powers) and being at peace.
* One becomes more connected with their
thoughts and feelings.
* Are more connected to others.
I’ve heard people say that the present is a gift. Thank you for accepting this gift from me and
taking a moment to digest it!
The
above information was referenced from www.presentliving.com/whatisbeingpresent
and www.essentiallifeskills.net/live-in-the-moment.html
