Many people think that they’re living in the present moment, but if
you really stop to think…are they? Are you? What can you do to make sure
that you’re present? Here are some simple tips to get you in the
moment…and get you living better because of it!

First, try this. Pick a present moment and describe it. Describe
everything about it. How does the air feel? Is there a certain
smell in the air? How do your clothes feel as they touch each part
of your body? Do you taste anything? What do you see? Notice
everything that you’re aware of. Begin every sentence with: ‘Right
now…’ or ‘At this moment…’ or ‘Here and now…’.

Sometimes, you can have resistances to this exercise. So just notice
and write down any difficulties or resistances that may arise. Be
AWARE of these issues and put them aside. Now, transfer this
exercise to…exercising! Think about your resistances to exercise,
get in the present, and describe how you feel!

If you don’t know where to start, use these questions. Why did you
start the exercise when you did? Were you tired? Angry? Did you go
blank while doing it? Did you daydream or wander off? How long was
it before your mind wandered off?

Now what do you do to get back on track? The first thing that I like
to do is use “stop thoughts.” When you’re having a negative or self-
destructive thought, just tell yourself to STOP! Like Jen says,
throw those negative thoughts into a mental blender and scramble them
up! Sometimes I even write the thoughts in a journal and “capture”
them in the closed book. Whatever helps you to move past these
thoughts, do it! Get rid of them and move forward immediately. Get
in the present and create the life that you want. Think of it like
this…an hour from now is only a fantasy. And an hour ago is only a
memory. The present is what you have to create now. Do it!

IMPORTANT: When you do this “getting present” exercise, you don’t
have to do this sitting still. Do it at ANY time! If you think
about it while taking a walk or even doing the dishes – DO IT! The
more practice you get at being present, the better!

BREATHE…CONNECT…FEEL the present moment! Anxiety is usually
about tomorrow. But things feelings such as boredom, impatience, and annoyance
can cause anxiety because you’re preventing a full experience.
Always acknowledge these feelings and the STOP them…and move on! I
know it sounds basic, but it really is that simple! The only thing
you can control is your own thoughts and reactions, so get to it!

To re-acquire the full feeling of PRESENCE is an experience of
tremendous impact. And you will definitely know it when you get
there. Don’t fear it…just BE with it. The present is your present!