A black mother and her son on an airplane. The son is wearing headphones and playing on a tablet.

I am on an airplane as I write this. I’m finishing the last leg of summer vacation, including stops in multiple cities. A first for me. For the last couple of weeks, I’ve been intentional about disconnecting from social media and putting down my phone altogether. I am turning off the distractions which include my wandering mind. I’m intentional about taking in my surroundings and being present. Right now, it’s the window seat. The sound of the plane fills my ears and relaxes my nerves. I can hear distant conversations happening. I peer out the window as the sun is setting. There is a curtain of clouds slightly ajar where the city lights below alum like fireflies in the dusk. It’s absolutely breathtaking, and I’m pausing to take it in before I finish this…

Okay, I’m back.

We did something different this time as we traveled. We got to the airport extra early for every single flight. We checked our bags, went through security, and found a restaurant. We scrolled the menu, ate, and talked without rushing. It got me thinking about how often we rush through life and miss these moments.

chicken dish at Two sisters in New Orleans

Our “RIGHT NOW” moments.

The most crucial moment of our lives.

We are busy thinking of our next move, reliving the past, etc. We allow intrusive thoughts to steal our present moment.

There was no regret in getting to the airport early. We didn’t feel we’d wasted time. We didn’t feel anxious about what was to come. We were simply in the moment. It was peaceful.

I challenge you this week

to take in your surroundings,

smell the fragrance,

taste it,

caress it,

and bask in the essence of your “RIGHT NOW”

The truth is yesterday doesn’t care, and tomorrow can wait.

Your “RIGHT NOW” deserves your undivided attention.

Do you accept the challenge?

Here are 10 Ways to be in the Moment:

  1. Practice Mindful Breathing:

Begin by focusing on your breath. Take a few moments to inhale deeply, feeling your lungs with air, and then exhale slowly, releasing any tension. Mindful breathing helps anchor your attention to the present and brings a sense of calmness to your mind and body.

  1. Engage Your Senses:

Immerse yourself fully in the present moment by engaging your senses. Notice the textures, colors, and aromas around you. Delight in the taste of your food, feel the warmth of sunlight on your skin and listen attentively to the sounds of nature or the people around you.

  1. Quiet the Noise:

In our digital age, distractions are everywhere. Set aside specific times to check your phone or email. During moments when you need to present, turn off notifications. By minimizing distractions, you create space to fully connect with the present.

  1. Practice Active Listening:

When engaged in conversation, give your full attention to the speaker, maintaining eye contact, nodding in understanding, and refraining from interrupting. This allows you to appreciate the exchange of thoughts and feelings.

  1. Find Joy in Simple Pleasures:

Embrace the joy of simple pleasures by fully savoring them. Whether it’s enjoying a cup of tea, watching the sunset, or spending quality time with loved ones, relish these moments without rushing or multitasking. Today I Chose Joy

  1. Let Nature Ground You:

Nature has a profound ability to center us in the present. Take walks in the park, sit by a river, or stargaze in the evening. Connecting with nature helps us tune into the rhythm of life and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

  1. Practice Gratitude:

Being grateful for the present moment can shift your perspective and bring contentment. Take time each day to reflect on the blessings in your life. Gratitude opens your heart to the abundance of the present and helps you cherish the little things. My Faith Walk: How to Begin Living Your Best Life Today

  1. Limit Overthinking:

Constantly dwelling on the past or worrying about the future can steal the joy of the present. Acknowledge your thoughts, but gently redirect your focus to your “right now”. Cultivate mindfulness by living in the present rather than in a cloud of overthinking.

  1. Embrace Mindful Activities:

Engage in activities that naturally promote presence, such as yoga, meditation, journaling, or painting. These activities encourage you to be fully present, in tune with your emotions, thoughts, and the world around you.

  1. Accept Imperfection:

Lastly, remember that being present in the moment doesn’t mean perfection. It’s about embracing life as it unfolds, with all its ups and downs. Accept that being fully present is a journey, and give yourself grace along the way.

Being present in the moment can truly change the way we experience life. When we start to incorporate these 10 simple practices into our daily routines, we can slow down, savor the little things, and build deeper connections with those around us. It’s in these “right now” moments that we find real joy and peace. So, let’s take a breath, embrace the present, and remember that these moments are the ones that really matter.

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