I think we can all agree that this past semester has been anything but tranquil. Separating school or work from life is as difficult as ever, and the constant anxiety of what the future holds is pressing. Right now, mindfulness is something that we could all benefit from. I know it seems a little daunting, for we all tend to wander in our thoughts, zoning out, focusing so much on the unknown, and overall just not being present. But, being mindful for even just a few minutes of the day can help quiet your thoughts for a moment and help to ease all that stress that this semester has brought on.
The best, and arguably the simplest way, to take a moment for yourself is to focus on your breath. Close your eyes, put down your phone, and just breathe. Be conscious of your whole body and your breaths in and out. Feel completely relaxed and think about your being in that specific moment. This technique is a great way to start and/or end your day, and even as a way to reconnect after a long study session. It is the perfect way to take a moment to forget about the paper you have due in a few hours and just to come back to the present, if even for only a minute.
If you are anything like me, you probably feel as though you don’t have enough time to stop and breathe. And for those of us who always have to be multitasking, I recommend turning your chores into meditation. By this, I mean, not watching Netflix while you clean your room, but focusing on solely cleaning your room and your progress. Paying attention to all the little details. Maybe your favorite playlist is playing softly in the background, but nothing more than that. Make this your time to be present at the moment. At this point, your only “worry” is to make your bed and put your clothes in the hamper, and doing your best not to zone out. Be aware, and your mind will be more at peace.
Finally, one of the best ways to find mindfulness at this time is to take a walk outside at any point in the day. It can be for ten minutes, or two hours, but take the time for yourself. This method is especially effective because you are able to utilize many techniques for mindfulness at once. As you are walking focus on your breath, your steps, and the environment around you. Take it all in and feel yourself in the moment. These are your minutes to quiet your mind and relax and separate your thoughts from all the things on your to-do list. They can wait; you are so much more important. Even take a couple of moments to think of the things you are grateful for. Feeling grateful requires noticing everything that happens in our lives. Maybe you’re grateful for the beautiful weather, or even the rain that allows for a cozy evening. There are spots for gratitude in the smallest of things, remember not to ignore them.
In the age of COVID, it is so difficult to remember to be present. I myself am guilty of getting caught up in all the deadlines and unknowns in the months ahead. But it is because of these uncertainties that taking a few moments to yourself is more important than ever. I hope you try one of the techniques I mentioned and begin to quiet your minds every day.