By Traci Brosman
During the holidays we give presents to friends, colleagues and loved ones. We may even buy ourselves a present or two. However, it is easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of too much to do and not enough time. It is easy to forget about our own well being – get stressed out, eat poorly, stop exercising and not sleep enough.
There is another way though, with a slight shift in your mindset you can enjoy all the holidays have to offer and you can actually improve your well-being at the same time.
You just need to focus on being present. Instead of multitasking and thinking of all the things you have to do or should be doing, focus on what you are doing during any given time. Use all of your senses to be in the moment and pay attention to what is going on around you. Focus on bringing fun and joy to your current moment. Listen and watch what is happening. Enjoy yourself and don’t rush things.
As you are shopping, be present and notice the wonder around you. Be aware of your surroundings and share your smile. Decorate your home and wrap your presents with love and joy. During the holidays we socialize a lot but we rarely really connect with people. Try to be truly present with the people you are with this season and focus on them by listening and being interested in what is happening in their lives. Don’t worry about fixing them, just listen and be there for them.
Practicing being present during all of your daily activities will change your life and bring more happiness to you and those around you than you can imagine. Being present not only improves your mental and emotional health but it also improves your physical health.
Being present while working out means hearing and feeling the change in your heart rate. Noticing the sweat dripping off your forehead and down your back. Feeling the burn of your muscles as they push themselves to exertion.
When you are eating remember to chew your food slowly and enjoy each bite. Pay attention to the way sugar, breads and dairy make you feel. Notice when you are full and stop eating. Don’t eat just to eat, remember that food is fuel for your body and you need to put good fuel in to get good results.
Being present in every moment is the best present you can give to others and it is the best gift you can give yourself.