Mindful Monday: It's back to school! As children we learn. As adults we unlearn.
It doesn't matter how old I am when September rolls around I still get that 'back to school' feeling.
I remember being excited about the first day of school - to see all of my friends, having new school supplies and a brand new outfit to wear.
Was I excited about learning? Hmm, I'm not so sure about that. But the learning still happened!
As children, we learn.
When we are born we are fully present and innocent. We aren't worried about the past of future yet, right?
Our mind is like a computer. We start to download 'data' (beliefs and stories). Some of the beliefs are positive and some are limiting.
As children get older they become less and less present. They may start to think about the future or worry about not fitting in, being pretty or smart enough. Some even have anxiety.
Have you noticed this in your children?
It continues to build and build. Until low and behold we are adults with this crazy busy mind, and no matter how many books we read, we can't figure out how to be in the moment or quiet it down.
The good news is...
As adults, we can unlearn.
Mindfulness is a mental training. We are training the mind to be present.
We are unlearning and letting go the beliefs that no longer serve us and we are connecting to the innocence and curiosity that we once had as a child.
How do we do this? One moment at a time.
Right now. Take a moment to STOP.
Take A Deep Breath.
Be aware of your breath as you inhale and as you exhale.
As you inhale think 'peace'.
As you exhale think 'calm'.
Aaaah. Doesn't that feel good?
Congratulations. You have just trained your mind to be present. And this is how change happens - one simple choice at a time.
To your peace, joy + well-being,
Diane