In today’s fast-paced world of demands and so many commitments, it’s easy to become lost in the whirlwind of daily life, constantly planning for the future or ruminating on the past.
We often forget to appreciate the beauty and depth of the present moment. To savor the simple, small pleasures that help make our lives beautiful and rich.
Living with presence is an art that transforms our lives, helping us savor the beauty of this now moment. Let’s explore how living with presence can bring more joy and fulfillment to our lives.
Table of Contents:
- What is Living with Presence?
- The Benefits of Living with Presence
- Practical Tips for Cultivating Presence
- Conclusion
What is Living with Presence?
Living with presence is the practice of being fully engaged and aware of the current moment, without judgment or distraction. It involves knowing yourself deeply, and operating from a clear, consistent core of being.
Presence involves acknowledging and taking responsibility for your thoughts, feelings, and actions as they arise without trying to change or escape them. This state of awareness fosters a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us.
The Benefits of Living with Presence
1. Depth of Lived Experience: Living with presence gives you access to a way of being that is unlike the norm of today’s “follow the trends” culture we live in. When you live with presence, you care less about what others do, or what they might think of you, and operate more from a deeper core of being that fills your cup and makes you whole.
2. Reduced Stress: Living with presence helps alleviate stress and anxiety. When you’re not dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, your mind is at ease. When you are no longer driven by “doing the right thing” and are following your inner compass, there is a peace of mind that knows no bounds.
3. Improved Relationships: Presence cultivates better communication and empathy. When you’re fully present with someone, you listen more attentively and respond more authentically.
4. Enhanced Creativity: Living in with presence allows you to follow the beat of your own drum, rather than walk the path that others are conditioned. It opens up your capacity to live your life by design, rather than by default, which is in itself, the most impeccable creative process.
5. Increased Gratitude: Living with presence encourages gratitude. You notice the small joys and beauty in everyday life, fostering a more positive outlook toward life and the people around you.
Practical Tips for Cultivating Presence
Living with presence is a lifetime commitment. It’s not something you accomplish in a weekend workshop, or by reading a simple blog post about it (although I am grateful you are reading this!). It is a way of being in the world that ushers you into a more peaceful, centered experience.
Here are some of the simple practices that will enhance your ability to live with presence:
1. Meditation: Regular meditation sessions can help train your mind to focus on the present. Start with just a few minutes a day and gradually increase the duration. The most important thing to know is that even one minute of meditation, done a few times per day, reduces your stress, and increases your sense of presence, calm, and well-being.
2. Breath Awareness: Pay attention to your breath. It’s always there, serving as an anchor to the present moment. Deep, conscious breaths can help bring you back when your mind starts to wander.
3. Disconnect from Technology: Unplug from your devices regularly. Spend time in nature, engage in hobbies, or simply relax without the constant distraction of screens.
4. Engage Your Senses: Focus on your sensory experiences throughout the day. Savor the taste of your morning coffee, feel the texture of the towel after your morning shower, and breathe in the air as you step outside. Take a moment between meetings to simple run your fingers lightly across your forearms for 30 seconds. Feel the pleasant sensation that provides. Each of these practices helps to flood your brain with serotonin and reduce stress.
5. Know your values: One of the central components of living with presence is to know what you value and cultivate your life to live it accordingly. When you spend time, energy, and money aligned with what you value, and as the person you see in your mind’s eye, you are bringing forth the highest and best version of you. That, in essence, is the foundation of living with presence.
Conclusion
Living with presence is an art that can be cultivated and practiced by anyone. The art of living with presence has the power to transform your life, bringing more joy, fulfillment, and contentment with every passing moment. So, take a deep breath, look around, and savor the beauty of the present.
If this topic interests you, I invite you to consider joining me for my 2024 Living in the Domain of Miracles program, that is all about Living with Presence.