Walking along the shores of Aberdeen has become a cherished routine for me when I am in Scotland or London. It serves as both a physical workout and a serene escape, allowing me to search for sea glass and pottery shards. This simple act has proven to be incredibly meditative, offering me solace in the sound of the ocean, the warmth of the sun, (or rain) and the gentle caress of the wind or the roar of the wind which is very common here. As I was on my beach combing journey yesterday, an intriguing metaphor for life began to unfold before me.
Lost in the pursuit of sea glass, I realized that I had been missing out on the beauty of the present moment by constantly looking backward or forward for glass I might have missed or could spot ahead of me. Just like overlooking the shards of glass right at my feet, dwelling on past negative experiences, such as failed relationships or career setbacks, only hindered my ability to appreciate the present. It dawned on me that these experiences do not define my worth or potential for love; instead, they are stepping stones that have shaped my strength and resilience. By focusing on the wisdom gained and accepting myself as I am, I could fully embrace the beauty that surrounded me in the here and now. (And the glass that often was right at my feet!)
On the other hand, fixating too much on the future also robs us of the joy and opportunities that exist in the present. While it’s important to plan for retirement and set goals for the future, becoming consumed by tomorrow’s uncertainties can overshadow the blessings of today. It is during challenging times that our inclination to dwell on the past or worry about the future intensifies. However, by finding stillness within the chaos and turmoil, we may discover that negative emotions pass more swiftly.
Walking along the beaches of Aberdeen, Scotland, has taught me the importance of living in the present moment. As I comb the shores for sea glass and pottery shards, I am reminded to let go of the past’s burdens and anxieties about the future. Instead, I embrace the tranquility and wisdom that come with fully immersing myself in the here and now. The beaches of Aberdeen have become more than just a place of physical exercise; they have become a sanctuary of self-reflection, resilience, and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.
You don’t have to travel to another country or have a beach at your doorstep to live in the present moment. Here are a few ways you can implement here and now living.
1) In the midst of life happening, stop several times throughout the day and ask, “Where are my feet?”. Then check in with all 5 of your senses and just notice what comes to you. Appreciate the details in. The present moment.
2) I know, I know-you have heard it a million times already but I am gonna say it again! What 3 things are your grateful for RIGHT NOW in this moment. Just tick them off in your head. Takes 3 seconds and you are in the present moment.
3) Engage in the flow of an activity (as I was explaining above). Any activity that absorbs your attention and allows you to enter a state of flow. For me, I can spend hours combing the shores, looking for sea glass. For you it could be a sport, a hobby or any activity that you enjoy that provides a sense of purpose or fulfilment.
4) And when things are batshit crazy, just go with the flow!
As always, I invite your thoughts!