How to be Present and Live in the Moment

By Lisa Kadavy

Edmond Family Counseling

Do you find yourself struggling to be present and live in the moment? Life pulls us in many different directions, and I quite frequently find myself struggling to be present and live in the moment.

Being present refers to a state of mindful awareness of what is right in front of you. Being present means slowing down your brain, listening, and bringing awareness to the moment that is currently happening instead of engaging in reoccurring random thoughts. Our minds are used to tapping into the past and planning for the future. A mindset of focusing on the present and living in the moment takes practice.

Health Coach, Stephanie Catahan, suggests helpful ways to assist being present in the moment:

-Focus on one thing at a time.

Believe it or not, our brains are not wired like computers. We cannot multitask well for a long period of time. As suggested by research, multitasking can even be detrimental to our productivity rates. Too much multitasking can lead to burnout quickly. When our attention is divided in so many ways, we can easily feel overwhelmed.

-Limit social media usage.

Taking a break from social media usage may help you focus on the things happening in front of you. To maintain a healthy brain, we need a break from social media. Scrolling for hours on social media is detrimental to our mental health and well-being. Setting reasonable limits for yourself everyday on social media will assist in training your brain to live in the present and be mindful.

-Make Eye Contact

When having difficulties staying present in a conversation, try to make eye contact with the person speaking. A great place to practice making eye contact is to start at home with family and friends. Staying connected to people is important for mental health. Make a conscious decision to put your phone down and engage in conversation whenever possible.

-Experience Nature

Nature provides an invitation to slow down and be present. Movement in nature can help keep you centered. Take a walk. Enjoy your surroundings and beautiful trees. If you have the opportunity walk on the beach and follow the waves. Nature is a great healer in today’s busy world.

-Active Listening

Active listening is when you make a conscious effort to hear only the words another person is saying, most importantly the complete message being communicated. In order to do this, you must pay attention to the other person very carefully.

Being present also means not worrying about tomorrow or dwelling on the past but living in the moment. Worrying does not take away tomorrow’s troubles; it takes away today’s peace. Through conscious effort by living in the momet, I can make a choice to give myself the gift of peace every day, and so can you! Will you join me?

Edmond Family Counseling is a non-profit organization. Our therapists may be reached at 405-341-3554 to schedule a counseling appointment.