Ever feel the pressure of the daily grind? Ugh… who doesn’t, right? Sometimes in this day and age, life feels like it’s flying by so very quickly. With the internet and tech revolution demanding our attention more than ever before, we can often succumb to being swallowed up in our technologically advanced devices. Smart phones, iPads, laptops, PCs, TVs – the list goes on.
So, how do we resist… and how do we make the most out of life? How can we just be in the moment? With a brand new year upon us, here are some of our tips on how to maximise life’s moments…
1. Hug a tree. Yep, we’re serious. Go find a beautiful, big old tree that has been on this earth longer than any of us, and hug it. Just feel the bark, the age, the earth. It’s amazing how this reminds you to stop and take time to just ‘be’.
2. Take 60 seconds three times (minimum) per day to just reflect. 60 seconds is a long time when we are all so busy. Just stop. Close your eyes. Concentrate on your breathing and think of what you’ve done in the day. Try not to let your mind wander to your to do list. Just think of what you have already achieved, what has made you smile, what you are grateful for. Three times per day, just a minute each time.
3. Remember life is what you make of it. Don’t blame others for the things you do. Keep checking on your own self and make adjustments when and if you can.
4. Find three hours in the week for yourself. Ideally all at the same time, but if not, half an hour here and there. Taking time – a few hours at a time – is enough to disconnect from the craziness of our busy lives. Read a book. Take a long walk and sit in the park. Talk with a friend. Take a long bath and then take your time drying off and rubbing moisturiser into your skin. Just slooooow down.
5. Doodle. Yes, that’s right – doodle. Grab a pencil and paper and just draw. Concentrate on the squiggly lines. Don’t stop. Whatever comes out in the doodles is whatever. It isn’t meant to be art, just a doodle. It can be so relaxing to do this. Give it a go.
6. Create a reflection book. Having a little notepad that is all yours to just jot down thoughts, special experiences, funny things or to just doodle in, is a great way to capture ‘you’ and your life. They are great to look back at and when you’re taking time out, they can be a great comfort to remember all the things you are doing, all the memories you are creating and experiences you are having.
7. Look up at the sky. Looking up at the sky to check out the sun, clouds, blue sky or stars and moon, can be completely breathtaking. Really take the time to look.
8. Eat and truly enjoy your food. So many of us eat our food as a necessity or in a rush while we’re on the go. Stop and eat slowly. Chew your food with meaning. Really taste the food and concentrate on what it feels like and the tastes and flavours. Each time you do this, you are slowing down your active mind and being in the moment.
How do you make the most of your life? What tips can you share?
Comments