Learning To Live In The Present

I've seen quite a few people on social media (and inspirational posts on Pinterest) practicing being more mindful and living in the moment. I know it's something that we usually tell ourselves that we will be doing more of in the New Year. But it's the kind of mind-set that if practiced enough, can change the way you think and react to different situations. Essentially living each day to your best.

I can be a bit of a Nervous-Nelly. I think a lot about future events I want to happen, but then I realize the time between now and then, which makes me panic. It's like looking up at a tall mountain you're about to climb and being scared if you'll ever make it to the top. All of this is silly, of course. We all know worrying about the past or future just takes away from the happiness we could be having right now. Make plans and goals, but don't get so focused on them that you lose your way before you have even started. 

One day when I was aimlessly scrolling through Instagram (one of my favorite hobbies) I came upon a post of this book: The Mindfulness Journal. The girl raved about how wonderful it was and I became intrigued. I saved it to my Book Depository wish-list and once pay-day rolled around I put it straight into my basket. 

Once it had arrived, gorgeous cover and all, I took it on a road trip I was taking with the boyfriend. I don't know about you, but I can never be without a book when I travel! Once I pulled it out of my bag and got reading I began to understand what the concept was all about. 

This Mindfulness Journal is basically your guide to finding peace in a great number of situations (snacking, tiredness, relationships etc.) It explains breathing exercises on each page, as well as little things you can focus on around you to become more mindful, as well as feeling calmer. If you tend to feel anxious, this little book would be a great companion to take with you anywhere. You could simply read some of the inspirational quotes, or take the advice the author gives you while you take a moment for yourself. 

I can't tell you how many stressful situations I have been in that would have been made simpler with this journal. It works to get you into a healthy and calm mind space by being present. You could practice it right now. Look at the scene around you and find three things that make you happy. Notice colors, the way textures feel on your skin, and take time to stretch your body while taking nice deep breaths. Feels pretty good, huh?

This is a technique that I practiced in the car on the way to our destination, and it's something I've been trying to continue every day. I'm not at meditation yet, but being more mindful of staying present can stop those future worries and can help you enjoy those amazing little moments. The other day I was anxious about a shift at work, but I pushed those thoughts out of my mind and just focused on enjoying my day off. It would have been silly to ruin my weekend by worrying about something that hasn't even happened yet, right? 

With the help from this beautiful journal, I am going to continue making mindfulness a habit and train my brain into being a calmer space. I know it sounds slightly cheesy, but focusing on the one day that's ahead of you and living in the moment, can make such a difference to you life. 

Give it a try!

What do you do to be more mindful? 

Steph x.