Being Present

Just when you feel like you’re getting comfortable, things have to change. Suddenly, before you know it, it’s time to start something new. Something new, and you just have to trust that things will work out. Just as we are getting comfortable with our life in Florida, we find out that we are moving, again, for like the seventh time in three years. And, not only are we moving, we are doing a big move, like almost catastrophic. Ok, well maybe not that big of a move, but it is an international move, we are relocating to Lisbon, Portugal for the next 9 months! Exciting, right? Totally. Nerve wracking, and a little bit unnerving? Absolutely! So how do I cope with this huge change? Well, I just have to look forward to all of those amazing European pastries I’ll be eating… 😉

While you may not be moving to a new country, or even a new state or town, change is one of the only constants in human life! Embrace it and learn to live each day in the present. I have been focusing on living in the present, especially with my little girl, and really enjoying every day. Some things that help me to stay in the present are meditation, having meaningful conversations, focusing on one task at a time, simplifying, and letting go of technology. I could literally write a post on each of these topics, but I will just tell you a little piece of how each one helps me to stay present.

• Mediation: As a mom, how much time do you have to actually meditate, not a lot. Maybe 30 seconds while you are using the restroom? C’mon, it is not easy to find the time, especially when there are so many things we have to do every day but taking that 30 seconds to a minute to sit, and focus on breathing and being still really makes an impact on me, and how present I am with my daughter.
• Having Meaningful Conversations: Ok, now I know you’re all thinking I see an adult once or twice a day and it’s hard to dig deep and be meaningful, or at least that’s what I’m thinking. But when I put down the phone, make eye contact, and really try to empathize with fellow mothers, my daughter, my spouse, I am more in the moment. And for the rest of the day, I feel like I can be more present as a mother and wife.
• Simplifying: I cannot express it enough. Simplify! In every way. You will find you have so much more time and so much less stress when you simplify.
• Letting Go of Technology: Ohh, man, it is so hard to get disconnected from technology. I have made a goal to stay off my phone for at least two hours before I go to bed, so that I can do things like meditate, and simplify, and have meaningful conversations with my husband. Let it go, turn it off, and just be present!

I’m sure I’m not the only one who often struggles with being present, so I would love to hear your thoughts on slowing down and truly being in the moment.

-Phoebe

{Phoebe currently living in Florida, is a mama to the sweetest little girl. She fills her life with travel and adventuring. She loves creating and is currently finishing her degree in photography.}