Moments, days, and time, in general, can really fly past us as we go about our lives. You know what I’m talking about right? You had been planning or visualizing that special day for months and then when it comes to the day of the event and – BAM – sweet, but over.

So how do we hold onto those moments? How do we truly savor the good stuff while it’s happening? And one answer is being present. Being physically and mentally present is the best way to live in the moment.

Why would you want to learn how to live in the moment? Because it reduces stress, helps you feel happier, and way more reasons than I can to type out. 

Do I have to constantly pinch myself to be present?

Being physically present is often the first way to live in the moment. Focusing on the physical is an easier steppingstone because it’s tangible, we’re tangible. We can pinch our arms and know that we’re here, we can feel it.

Being mentally present is more challenging to achieve for some because our minds are untrained in slowing down. Meditation is one way to train your mind to slow down and has been scientifically proven to improve overall wellness. Yet, although it is simple in theory, it can be difficult in practice.

Let’s practice living in the moment

We’re going to use an exercise of eating to put our skills to the test. Eating is something we all have to do to survive however it is commonly rushed or thoughtless activity. If you want to practice living in the moment you can start with your next meal.

Depending on what meal you choose (breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack time) you will want to block off a decent amount of uninterrupted time. A 20-minute minimum is required for your brain to even keep up with whether or not your full, so keep that in mind.

Tips to live in the moment while eating

• Set the table – take some time to clear a nice space, set down cutlery, a dish, and something to drink from. You may even want to light a candle or put a comfy cushion on your chair.

   

• Put distractions away – use this opportunity to put away the computer, phone, keep the radio and tv off. You are trying to avoid prompts that could take your attention away from this moment of eating your food.

   

• Be grateful – before you start in on your food think or vocalize some words of gratitude. Getting into a state of gratitude will help you not only enjoy what’s in front of you but will help you get into a positive state of mind.

   

• Eat what you enjoy – this might sound like common sense, but actually, many of us don’t plan for foods that truly nourish us. Meal planning can help you if this is something you struggle with.

   

• Observe your food – whether your alone or with others, take some time to discuss and describe your food. This action will help you be present and physically aware.

How to live in the moment is actually about slowing down

It is easy to get caught up in the fast-paced movement of our culture – Watch this! Be more productive! Have you tried this yet? Share that! – I used to find myself constantly asking if there could be 25 hours in the day, but now this feeling is rare.

The tips shared above can easily be transferred to other situations as well by applying the same strategies.

• Set the table = Set yourself up for success – meaning having the physical things around you that help you do the activities you love, help you relax, and add value to your life. If your items feel cluttered, consider decluttering and getting organized.

   

   

• Put away distractions = Minimize distractions – the same rule applies almost everywhere in your life. Be mindful of when and how you interact with distractions. Set boundaries for your digital life.

   

   

• Be grateful = Be grateful – yep, this is a good practice all day long, no matter what you’re doing.

   

   

• Eat what you enjoy = Do what you enjoy – evaluate how you spend your time and try to incorporate more of what you love. And if you don’t love your job consider the ways you can modify it or leave it for something better.

   

   

• Observe your food = Observe your surroundings – no matter where you are, the more aware you are of place, the smells, the sounds, the easier it will be for you to become physically present in the moment.

Like all advice, I recommend and personally always take things with a grain of salt. You are the only person who knows what makes your life feel good. So try out these tips and feel free to modify and tweak them as you see fit. Enjoy living in your moments.