I like to watch people as they go about their daily activities. In other words, there’s a lot to learn by observation. I learn a lot by watching people, most are not engaged in life. They simply  go through the motions of living. We are mindless creatures in our actions.

Wake Up!

Driving down the highway, you suddenly realize your destination is just ahead, but getting there is a mystery. Therefore, you’re baffled by your arrival. What happened to the landmarks you should have passed?

This is a form of hypnosis. Often called, road hypnosis. You zoned out as you went by the markers along the way. You are conscious, yet in a trance. For instance, one is traveling along a well known route, however, you are not paying attention to what’s going on around you. You arrive at your destination and never noticed the things around you.

Be aware! Awareness is the knowledge and ability to focus attention on your inner thoughts. Focus on the experiences of the present moment.

Accept the moment at hand! Don’t judge or avoid the sensations felt as you stand in that moment. In addition, to being in the moment, focus on what is going on. Live in the moment!

Is there a purpose to all of this?

Cultivate your perception, be consciously aware of the current moment. Similarly, note what you feel, be aware of one’s surroundings. Feel the emotions in that moment.

Mindfulness helps us tune out distractions. It improves our memory and strengthens our attention skills. Remembering information is greatly improved. In addition, it helps regulate emotions. Those who practice mindfulness experience, a decrease in emotional reactivity. And therefore, an increase in mental focus is developed.

Instead of your thoughts being scattered all over the place, one is able to realize and accept each moment for what it is. Appreciate the little things taken for granted on a moment-by-moment basis.

Be present! In other words, pay attention to what you are doing! You will remember where you put your car keys. Above all, you remember that the door is locked, the stove is turned off, and all is well. Don’t zone out!

Why be mindful?

Be mindful. Take time for what matters to you. Be conscious and aware of the current place in time you occupy.  Accept and be non-judgmental of the events occurring in the present moment. Awareness in your own and other people’s emotions, thoughts and sensations is imperative to stay in the moment.

Some benefits are reduction in:

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Pain
• Depression
• Insomnia
• High blood pressure (hypertension)

In summary

Engage in your life! Life is short. Don’t come to the end of life and wonder, what was the purpose? Engagement is to pay attention to your life and the moments making up your life. Live in the moment, intentionally bring in an open, accepting and discerning attention to everything you do. Find joy in simple pleasures. Treat yourself with kindness and forgiveness. Don’t take live so seriously. Express appreciation, gratitude and gratefulness.

Above all, actually live your life! In other words, the little moments are what makes life worth living. Therefore, I leave you with the saying,

“Stop and smell the roses”

In conclusion, stay in the moment, be engaged!