We’re all on overload with information on how to be mindful.
Sometimes I spend more time reading about how to be present than I do applying
the principles I’ve learned.
Trying really hard to be present is almost an oxymoron – the
two activities cancel each other out, and we’ve overcomplicated a very simple
concept.
If you want to be fully present in any given moment, try
this:
Feel your feet.
Hear your breath.
As you’re embracing these two simple actions, ask yourself
these questions:
* Where are my feet? How can I be more truly “in”
my feet? (Try imagining an X at the bottom of each foot, and then aim to press
down through all four corners.)
* How is my breath? Can I deepen my inhales,
lengthen my exhales, and notice the sound of air passing in and out of my nose?
* Can I feel my breath in my feet?
Ask these questions as often as you can. This will bring you
solidly into your body, which then helps you be fully present to yourself, to
the moment, and to the person or activity you are with.
Feel your feet.
Hear your breath.
It’s that simple.
