Being Fully Present is Key to Success

Being fully present with whatever I am doing is a key to success ... and joy!

Several years ago I had the honor and pleasure of studying meditation with a Tai mountain monk, Phra Mana.  His simple and gentle approach made all the difference.  I finally understood what meditation was, and was not.  I am forever in gratitude to him for introducing me to the practice of mindfulness.

And, it is about practice, not perfection.  Truth be told, I joined his class at the Peaceful Dragon with lots of hope but not much confidence that I would actually learn to meditate.  Why?  Because I had attended several classes that kinda' worked while in class, but had little lasting affect on me and my life.

Of course, when we are ready the teacher appears.  My life was in transition and I needed a teacher who could help me navigate big change with grace.  So, I signed up.

From the first class I felt a difference.  Phra Mana had an easy, approachable demeanor and did not take himself or meditation too seriously.  What I learned is that meditation is not (only) about sitting still and trying to be of no mind.  It is about being mindful and fully present in whatever you are doing - be it breathing, eating, drinking, walking, running, playing, doing dishes, vacuuming or talking with family members.

Yes, we practiced meditating on our breath, watching candles, incense and just sitting still (some people on the floor in lotus position and others in chairs).  But, we also enjoyed being mindful while walking slowly around a room with eyes half closed, sitting by a bubbling stream, drinking tea, eating our meals and much more.

He taught us to be fully present, and not resist the thoughts that entered our mind.  Inviting us to gently let go of each thought as they popped up.  And, for those like me whose mind got more active when sitting still, he taught us to to focus on one thought at a time. 

He reminded us to not get attached to the thoughts that attempt to distract us from what we are presently engaged in.  Just gently let go of them and bring our attention back to where we are and what we are doing.  Fully engage in and enjoy the moment.  AND, most importantly, to remember to breathe.  Making each moment more focused and peaceful, energizing and power-full.

Even now, as I write this blog, I take a moment to enjoy a slow breath and hear his playful and gentle reminder to "give a little smile!"

Wishing you days of mindful work and play and joyful presence.

Namaste'

Comments

[Mary Alice Long, PhD]

Playfulness, being gentle with yourself, lack of perfection & slow breathing all stand out as "velcro words" (coined by Sheila Bender) in your blog post Karen.

Thank you for your teachable story. Just right at the end of my working/playing day.

Play=Peace, Mary Alice