Mindfulness = Healing

Staying in the present moment can sometimes be challenging in this hectic world of multitasking. It's vital to be able to stay present in order to accomplish tasks and finish what we start. If the mind wanders, quite often our current project can go a bit haywire.

For example, if I'm reminiscing my writing reflects what I was thinking about. So a project that should be about vocal exercises turns into something about those goofy friends I had when I was a kid. How is that helpful? Not very! I mean some of them are successful musicians now, but a hilarious memory has nothing to do with vocal production.

So how does one keep themself in a "moment?"

Meditation is extremely helpful.

It only takes 5 minutes (or longer if you'd like).

Breathe in through your nose.

Breathe out through your mouth.

Feel the breath moving inward.

Listen to the sound of the breath.

Feel the rush of air through your mouth.

Focus on your breath. It's that simple.

Another option, if you have to stay focused throughout the day is to wear a hair elastic or a bracelet. If your mind starts wandering, snap the elastic or bracelet lightly.

Use affirmations throughout the day

"I'm focused"

"I get tasks done"

"I'm present"

The sense of smell can also bring you into present moment and are great quick "pick me ups" if your feet are dragging sluggishly from being overworked.

Rosemary

Lemon

Orange

Grapefruit

Peppermint

Eucalyptus

Staying in the here and now can be a challenge if your faced with a long to do list. If you're faced with an overwhelming task the brain will simply shut down. The brain can only handle things in "chunks" so compartmentalize your list or your task at hand.

Do what you can in your given moment with what you have presently.

If that means cleaning. Consolidate. All those plastic bags that need to be recycled can come in handy. Overwhelmed with office supplies like post it notes? Put them in a bag, same for pens, paperclips etc. Once you have a place for them physically, like a desk or a bin, go ahead & organize. I found this method helpful after moving into a small house! Clothes everywhere? Pick them up, put the dirty clothes in a hamper, put the clean clothes away or if pressed for time, put them in a laundry basket.

Someone once told me "clutter is a sign of genius." Well, if that's the case then I must be a total brainiac LOL

Be present, enjoy the good stuff of life.