However, one thing that doesn’t have to change as we age is our ability to live in the moment. In fact, research has shown that living in the moment can actually improve our health! So here are some tips for how you can start living in the moment today.
Stop Multitasking
You’re probably used to multitasking and think it’s no big deal. Maybe you can even do it without thinking much about it. But did you know that multitasking can lead to cortisol spikes? Cortisol is a stress hormone that has been linked to, among other things, weight gain and anxiety. So if you want to learn how to live in the moment, one of the best things you can do is stop multitasking. Instead of trying to do two or more things at once, focus on one thing at a time and give it your full attention. You’ll be surprised at how much better you’ll feel – and how much more productive you’ll be.
How exactly can you do that? Here are some tips:
- Make a to-do list for the day and focus on one task at a time.
- Put away your phone when you’re with other people.
- When you’re working on a project, close all other tabs on your computer.
- If you struggle to focus on one thing, set a timer and work on the task for a set amount of time.
Practice Gratitude
We’ve all heard the saying that life is what happens while we’re busy making other plans. And it’s true. Too often, we get caught up in worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, and we miss out on the beauty of the present moment. But living in the moment doesn’t have to be complicated. There are easy ways to bring your attention back to the here and now.
One of the simplest and most effective ways is to practice gratitude. Whenever you find yourself getting lost in thought, take a moment to focus on something you’re thankful for. It can be something as small as a cup of coffee or a sunny day. By regularly practicing gratitude, you can train your brain to focus on the positive aspects of your life, and you may even find yourself feeling more joyful overall and experiencing numerous health benefits.
So, next time you find your mind wandering, take a deep breath and remember to appreciate the good things in your life. They’re always worth savoring.
Embrace Acceptance
You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.
This bit of wisdom from mindfulness expert Jon Kabat-Zinn espouses the idea that we must deal with the discomforts of uncomfortable situations. The lesson can also be called “roll with the punches.” It applies to more than just getting used to cold water. It’s about learning to accept what is, even when what is isn’t ideal. And then adapting and moving forward.
Of course, that’s easier said than done. Accepting things as they are is a muscle that needs to be exercised, and it doesn’t come naturally to everyone. If you’re not used to accepting things, it can feel like you’re resigning yourself to a life of unhappiness or rolling over and being taken advantage of.
The key is understanding the difference between acceptance and resignation. Resignation is when you give up hope that things could be different. So, for example, you might be dealing with a low sex drive and aren’t sure how to rekindle the romance in your relationship. Acceptance is when you still have hope, but you’re acknowledging that things are the way they are right now. Per our example, that would mean accepting that your sex drive is low right now and knowing that with the help of hormone testing and therapy, you can find ways to improve it.
If you’re struggling to accept something, it can help to remind yourself that acceptance is a choice—and it’s a choice that comes with some pretty benefits. For example, people who accept difficult situations are often more resilient and adaptable. As a result, they tend to experience less stress overall.
Take Care of Yourself: Body, Mind, and Spirit
It’s no secret that life can be overwhelming and stressful at times. It can be tough to find a moment to just breathe with work, family and social obligations. However, it’s essential to take a step back and care for yourself every once in a while. By taking care of your body, mind and spirit, you can learn to live in the moment and enjoy the present.
- Body – Self-care starts with taking care of your body. Eating healthy foods and exercising regularly help to improve your physical health and well-being. It’s also important to get enough sleep and to take breaks when you need them. When you’re feeling physically well, it’s easier to focus on the present moment.
- Mind – Caring for your mind is just as important as caring for your body. Taking time to relax and de-stress is crucial for maintaining a healthy mental state. Meditation, journaling and spending time in nature are great ways to calm your mind and focus on the present moment.
- Spirit – Last, it’s important to care for your spirit. Doing things that make you happy and fulfilled helps you feel more connected to yourself and the world. Whether reading, painting, spending time with friends or anything else that brings you joy, schedule some “me” time into your busy life.
One example that touches on all these aspects is Shinrin-yoku, the Japanese art of forest bathing. It has been researched for its potential to significantly improve people’s physical and psychological health. Also translated as “absorbing the forest atmosphere,” it is when you visit the forest for relaxation and rejuvenation. Forest bathing has been shown to improve blood pressure and heart rate, boost the immune system, and reduce stress. So, if you live near a wooded area, take some time out of your busy life to go for a stroll and take in the sights, sounds and smells of nature.
The Takeaway
No matter what life throws your way, remember that you have the power to choose how you react. Learning to accept difficult situations and take care of yourself can help you live in the moment and enjoy the present. When you choose to live in the moment, you open yourself up to a world of possibilities.