"Being here now" is a phrase that refers to the practice of living in the present moment, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. According to the spiritual teacher, Ram Dass, this is the key to true happiness and inner peace.
One of the main reasons that people struggle to be present is because of their constant mind chatter. We tend to get caught up in our thoughts and worries, rather than focusing on what is happening in the present. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress.
Ram Dass suggests that by becoming more aware of the present moment, we can break free from the cycle of negative thoughts and emotions. By focusing on our breath, our senses and the present moment, we can gain a sense of inner calm and tranquility.
But being here now is not just about relaxation, it also means being fully engaged in whatever task or activity you're doing. Whether it's work, spending time with loved ones, or even doing the dishes, by being fully present in the moment, you will find more joy and satisfaction in your daily life.
One way to practice being here now is through meditation, which can help you quiet your mind and focus on your breath. Another technique is mindfulness, which involves paying attention to your thoughts and emotions without judgment, and allowing them to pass without getting caught up in them.
"Being here now" is a powerful concept that can help us find peace, happiness and fulfillment in our lives. By learning to live in the present moment, we can break free from the cycle of negative thoughts and emotions and find true joy in our everyday experiences.
Here are some ways to practice being in the present moment every time:
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Take a "mindfulness break" every hour: Set a reminder on your phone or computer to take a short break every hour to focus on your breath and bring your attention to the present moment.
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Use your senses: When you're feeling overwhelmed by thoughts, bring your attention to your senses. What do you see, hear, smell, taste and feel right now?
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Practice "grounding" techniques: When you're feeling anxious or stressed, try "grounding" techniques like squeezing a stress ball or going for a walk to bring your attention back to the present moment.
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Make a "to-be" list: Instead of making a traditional "to-do" list, make a "to-be" list. Write down things you want to "be" like "be present," "be kind," "be patient," etc.
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Play a game: Play a game with yourself to see how many times you can catch yourself thinking about the past or future and gently bring your attention back to the present moment.
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Use "anchors": Choose an anchor that can be a physical object, a word, or a phrase that you can use to bring yourself back to the present moment when you find your mind wandering.
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Laugh and have fun: Laughter is a great way to bring yourself back to the present moment, so make sure to find time for fun and laughter in your day.
Remember, being here now is not about being perfect, it's about being aware of your thoughts and emotions, and making a conscious effort to come back to the present moment when you find yourself getting caught up in the past or future. With practice, it will become easier and more natural to be present all the time.