What does it mean to be present?

Let's discuss what it means to be present in the age of social media & immediate gratification.

With social media at our fingertips at all times it is easy to get swept up in the day to day tasks while scrolling through Instagram or Tik Tok. But with our attention constantly divided between work and our cell phones, when does our mind get time to shut off?

"If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present." -Lao Tzu

Being present means setting aside distractions, letting go of expectations, and severing ties with our past experiences.

When we allow ourselves to get out of our own minds, we can truly see our full potential. Being present provides space for healing and growth.

My 5 Favorite Practices in Being Present

If you are feeling disconnected from the moment and want to plug back into the present, give these practices a try.

1. Meditation

A great way to begin your day with presence is starting a meditation practice. Before you start your day, find a quiet safe place. Take a seat or lay down, close your eyes, and clear your mind. Take notice of your breath, the way your body feels, and just allow yourself to be in the moment.

2. Go for a Walk Outdoors

My favorite way to bring myself into the moment is to take a quick nature walk. Feeling the sun on my skin, hearing the birds, and feeling the grass under my feet is just what I need to clear my mind and energize my body for the rest of the day.

3. Journal

Before heading to bed, reflect on your day and journal your thoughts. What did you do today? Was your mind present during your activities? Did you work towards your goals? What distracted you today? Allow yourself a few minutes to decompress and reflect on the day.

4. Cook Yourself a Nourishing Meal

It's so easy to order take out and continue working while shoveling food into our mouths. Nothing brings you into the present more than planning, prepping, and eating a homecooked meal. It can be as simple as making a sandwich, but put your phone down, put on some music and prepare your meal without distractions.

5. Move Your Body

We all have that one activity that we love so much we will put our body through anything. Whether it's spending 2 hours in a squat gardening, walking 5 miles shopping in the mall, or dancing for hours to your favorite music, get up and do something you love that involves a little physical activity.