Be. Here. Now.
You've probably heard of whale watching, but have you ever considered taking some time for snail watching?
I've become a bit of a podcast addict. Let's face it: I'm an information vacuum constantly snacking on new knowledge. But this year, I'm trying to focus on the present moment: being more present and embracing what's happening right now. This new mindset encourages me to take out the AirPods, give the Kindle a break, and resist the urge to click the buy now button so quickly.
Most mornings, and sometimes in the evenings, if the weather is bearable, I go for a walk. In the past, I'd spend all that walking time absorbing other people's thoughts. But now, I'm leaning more towards my own thoughts and having inner conversations with Divine Love. I really enjoy my own company, and I'm not embarrassed to talk to myself, especially now that I've reached an age where I couldn't care less if people think I'm strange. Speaking of weird, I also do shoulder rolls, hip openers, a few lunges, and even a yoga pose or two along my route. Believe me, it's an absolute freak show on Leona Lane, and I love it.
Due to my focus on being present, my pace has slowed down. Yes, I'm getting older. I've had foot surgery, which limits my movements, and I've incorporated all these odd activities into my walk, but it's more than that. I'm learning to walk in a new way—one that's less about getting things done and more about just being here right now. During my walks, I engage all my senses, noting what I see, hear, smell, taste, and feel. Then, I pay attention to what Divine Love seems to be inviting me towards. This morning, I mistook a tiny snail for a small acorn. You can add eyesight to the list of changing things about me. I watched it for a while, captivated by its slow and steady movement, appreciating the wonder of such a small and intricate creature. It got me thinking: why do we always praise speed? Look, I'm all for being efficient. I love checking things off my to-do list. I even keep track of all the content I consume, or should I say, the content I'm trying not to consume as quickly. Completing tasks gives me a rush, and it happens pretty often. But I'm beginning to realize that there are rewards in slowing down, too: less rush and more grounding.
I have the privilege of listening to clients and directees share their lives with me. As I listen, I notice common themes. While each person is unique, there are shared experiences. Many of the people I've spoken with are transitioning from summer's slower pace and relaxed structure to the faster pace and busier routine we call Fall. Some welcome the change, some don't, and for others, it's a bit of both. I wonder what it would be like to incorporate some slow-paced moments in this seasonal transition—to take a few minutes to slow down and pay attention to what you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel. To be open to what is happening in the present, move your body the way you want without worrying about being judged, and perhaps even open yourself up to a sense of Divine Love.
