So often in this blog we talk about change, how to get what you want. Learning new things, how to improve. I’m feeling rather reflective today, as autumn deepens it seems like a good time to pause, take a deep breath and enjoy what we’ve got.
I’ve been thinking a lot about transformation lately. Maybe it’s because I get to watch my beautiful son change daily as he moves through infant-hood. Maybe its the time of year, where we are all awash in nostalgia, with the leaves turning, the harvest coming in.
Usually we talk about the transformation that takes work, digging through personal issues, releasing old stuff, facing hard challenges. But lately I’ve been witnessing the transformation that happens in an instant. I guess the gate of birth is like that. One instant it’s the most exhausting excruciating moment of your entire life, followed by the most sublime, joyous thing ever.
That’s a dramatic example, but also consider the simple: sometimes the simple act of just waking up to the beauty that surrounds you at this very moment is transformative. All too often I’m so concerned with what I have to get done, I view my son’s moods as something to be worked through, an obstacle to my ‘real work’. He’s fussy and needs a nap, so we lay down on the bed together, I’m wishing I would have brought my ipad in the room with me, but I don’t want to get up and disturb him. I’ve got a million other things to work on. I shush him, and rock him, and eventually he’s asleep. By that point everything else I wanted to get done no longer feels important. Not nearly as important as holding this small life in my arms, feeling his breath become regular, and smelling his infant smell. I realize that this moment won’t last forever. I breathe, I enjoy it, I am transformed.
Becoming present with the moment is a form of instant transformation. We all have access to it right now, every moment. What in your life helps you come into the present moment? Take a second right now to enjoy something right in front of you, even if it’s just the sensation of breathing. Let the moment transform you. Be sure to leave a comment about your experience below.
Allison Carr LAc believes that healing yourself makes the world a better place. Learn more about her work and classes at http://allisoncarr.net/
photo credit: Eduardo Amorim via photopin cc
I don't share my list with anyone! Promise.
This year I turned 60(!)& with this milestone year came a deep appreciation for each new day, expressing gratitude daily to the Universe for the opportunities, the blessings, the challenges & lessons this new day will bring. I no longer anxiously concern myself about what I don’t have or haven’t done…it’s really not important. I have what truly matters most to me: the love of family & friends, a roof over my head, food to eat, a healthy mind & body & meaningful work. I am very blessed & wealthy beyond measure.
Blessings Louise on your 60th year! Gratitude is such a great way to be in the moment, thank you so much for sharing.
exactly!
wait and wait for my 8 yr old to fall asleep, but, his hand on my waist and his sleeping face.
Yes, they aren’t young forever, are they?
I am cheered by the sight and sensation of holding my favorite handmade mug… taking a sip of tea, I savor the bitter flavor…as I swallow I relax into the warmth traveling down into my body… I am deeply soothed.
Thank you 🙂
Beautiful image! Thank you for sharing.
Hi, Allison. I’m Bharat. I have been in sadness and fear for many months now, because of my personal problems. I am trying to get better and good with my life. I have been reading articles on motivation and happiness everyday right after I wake up hoping that a pleasant feeling will take over my day. Today I just woke up and read one of your article ” when positive thinking doesn’t help “. I must say, I feel like a lot of weight has been lifted. “feel the feelings but dont attach stories to it “. I really like what you said, it’s true. that’s the reason why I couldn’t come out of my sadness for long time. and I went ahead to your website and read this simple and warm article. I must say the pleasant feeling that i was hoping to take over my day, has been multiplied several times. I feel warmth and pleasant in your words. I really wish you would enjoy every moment of infant-hood of your son. Thank you for making my day. Have a nice day, Allison.
Thank you Bharat, I’m so glad you found something helpful in my writing. You just made my day as well, this is the main reason I write. I wish you all the best with what your are going through.