Mindfulness for Beginners: Anchoring to the Present Moment

Mindfulness is more than awareness of the present and “letting go of the past and future”—it’s a daily practice that helps us develop loving kindness and compassion, as well as equanimity, patience and focus.

When we think of “meditation,” we often visualize a person sitting in lotus position with their fingers perched on their knees in a certain mudra. This is one of thousands of ways we can meditate. Mindfulness meditation can be practiced in any moment, during any and every activity (or non-activity, such as sitting, lying down or standing still).

Formal practice blends into informal practice over time with intention and effort.

We become more present and feel more alive in this moment, right here, right now.

The simplest way to meditate is by finding an anchor to keep us in the present moment.

Here are some suggestions:

Mantra
Candle flame/fire
Mandala creation/coloring
Bell
Listening to Music
Chanting
Sounds in the environment
Breath
Sensations
Emotions
Metaphor
Writing (stream of consciousness)

The possibilities are endless! What other ways can we keep anchored to ever-changing present?

“If you think you’re free, there’s no escape possible.” ~ Ram Dass

Read the full version on elephant journal.