The power of the present moment
Updated: Jan 27
In my last blog post, I wrote about the power of embracing the present moment. I wanted to expand on that. In these last few weeks, I have been paying more attention to managing my energy. I have been challenging myself to be more present in everything I do and cultivate healthy habits daily.
For example, I'm on my phone a lot. I mean - who isn't these days? We are constantly keeping up with information and receiving information at the touch of our fingertips. As a journalist, I'm plugged in 24/7. I have to be. However, I'm also human, and constantly plugging in can sometimes be overwhelming.
I have had to set limitations for my mental health so that I can be fully present for other priorities. This is important, especially when it comes to self-care. For instance, taking 45 minutes daily to journal, read, or practice yoga without looking down at the notifications on your screen is self-care. Disconnecting for a little while is okay. Being more mindful about how you manage your energy can indeed be transformative.
Another aspect of embracing the present moment is gratitude. Each new day is a gift. It's another opportunity to live in the now. I have challenged myself to write down two to three things per day that I'm grateful for at that moment. They might even be small things, but they still hold power. Acknowledging what I'm grateful for allows me to set the stage for my day. It allows me to stay present and focus on what I can do "today." I'll admit, it's so easy to get caught up in overthinking and worrying about the next task on the list. I have been there many times and let anxiety take over. The key to fully embracing gratitude comes down to present-moment awareness.
Here are a few ways I try to be more mindful of the present moment:
Start your day with gratitude. Write down one or two things you are grateful for at that moment.
Meditation. Take some time at the start of your day to check in with your breath. Go back to it throughout your day whenever you start to feel tension.
Take a social media-free day. Unplugging to recharge is so beneficial.
Journal your thoughts. Writing is a powerful way to express yourself.