As I was getting a massage the other day, I found myself forming a mental list of the things I had to accomplish that day, and other thoughts were keeping my mind going. But then I had to pause - I forced myself to take a deep breath, to ask myself where I was and what I was doing.
I chose then, to focus on my breathing, to be mindful of my muscles relaxing, of where I had pain. I wanted to use this opportunity to for what it was. The chance to give my body a small gift. I left my mental list alone, and let myself be. It wasn’t easy, and took some concentration, but the effort was worth it.
I know I felt more relaxed at the end of my session. I know my muscles released a little more tension because I was in the moment. I try to be in the moment throughout the day, but I find that unless I can block off time it’s challenging. It’s easiest though when I’m outside. To stop and just breathe. To take in the surroundings and appreciate what I have.
Being in the moment takes practice, but it’s worth the effort.
