I almost always take the present moment for granted. Obsession with the future or the past seems to take up most of my brain-space. The constant chatter can become too much. When this happens, I’ve found the practice of “resting in the present moment” to be especially helpful.
I take a satisfying breath inward, pause naturally at the fullness of my lungs. Then I kind of melt into the exhalation. I imagine the exhalation carrying away the turbulence of unrestful thoughts and worries, and then I visualize release.
There’s a place in the breath right after exhalation and right before inhalation that can be very peaceful and profound. I dwell there lightly only a small second before taking another satisfying breath inward.
I repeat this simple practice again and again until the present moment becomes the focal point. It’s not going to stick for long. Return to the breath again and again. There’s magic in the moment … this one.
Quarantine has presented its own share of challenges, but re-entering society post-pandemic is its own kind of difficult.
May you find peace as you navigate this unknown new terrain of the present moment. May you find your own pace and discover your own rhythm again. And most of all, may you find ways to rest your heart and mind in light of change and uncertainty.
—Jessica Lien, Prairiewoods development coordinator