Tranquility Workshops Blog

Full speed ahead!   This morning, I was furiously busy cleaning the house and getting ready to host my grandson’s birthday party.  This rushing around was all self-inflicted, because I didn’t give myself enough time to accomplish everything I thought I needed to do.   Once the party started, I was able to do some quality socialization, but for the most part, I was operating mindlessly, trying to keep everything organized and flowing smoothly.  Somewhere along the line, I quickly inhaled some food and beverage.  I was lost in auto pilot mode until I sat down to sing “happy birthday” and watch him blow out the candles on his birthday cake.  What a special moment that is for a kid, and I’m glad I didn’t miss a second of it. 

After the event was over, I busily cleaned up, did laundry, did homework, and took a shower.  Now that I’m finally sitting here quietly pondering over the events of the day, I can admit that I’m aware of the contrast between spending a day mindfully vs. on auto pilot.  I felt like I was one step ahead of myself at all times today. 

By not being in my usual mindful mode today, I feel like I lost out on:

• really connecting with people.

• tasting and enjoying the food.

• looking at the presents.

• playing with the children.

• enjoying the benefits of a relaxing shower.

I can feel the difference in my body, mind and emotions, and the best thing for me to do at this point, is take the time right now to do a sitting mindfulness meditation, to become anchored in the present moment once again.  Then…..it’s off to sleep for a good night’s rest, and a promise to myself to spend tomorrow more mindfully (for my own well-being). 

Spending some time mindfully every day really makes a difference in how I feel, and I can see now that the benefits outweigh the effort I put in to taking the extra time to slow down once in a while…..and pay attention. 

To prevent a repeat of this situation, I’m be on the lookout for thoughts of procrastination, to ensure that I have the time to do what I need to do.