Inspiration

We spend much of our time either thinking about the past or worrying about the future. In fact, there is no other moment in time other than the one that is happening right now. Time slips by when our minds are not paying attention to our present experience. When we are totally absorbed in what we are doing in the present, we fully appreciate that moment. It is an exhilarating experience, one that makes us feel truly alive, positive, and productive. It creates the "timeless" moments during which our tensions, fears, and pressures about time evaporate. This experience is sometimes called "flow state," or a state of "mindfulness."

To get to this state, you must break the rushing habit. Here are some things that might help:

• Try driving 5-10 mph slower.
• Select the longest grocery checkout line (but not when everyone is waiting for dinner!), smile, and practice waiting patiently.
• Try not wearing a watch.
• Don't look at the clock for a day.
• Allow yourself some time for transitions—to shift gears between activities: sit in the car for a few minutes before getting out; take a moment of silence before eating a meal; let the telephone ring several times before answering it.
• Schedule some protected, free time.
• Immerse yourself in a pleasurable sensory experience such as taking a hot bath with a scented candle lit, or listening to the rain falling outside.
• Practice mindfulness relaxation techniques.
• Focus your full attention on whatever task is in front of you, whether it's washing dishes, commuting, talking with someone, or attending a meeting.