Be Mindful

Mindful choices. Most often we are on autopilot performing a series of formed habits that take us on a joy ride everyday. This means that we are unconsciously moving through the world just watching as we live our lives. The actual act of being mindful means to truly be in the moment and take up a different view as the driver rather than the passenger. When you are washing the dishes be mindful. Should you be using that much soap? How hot is the water? When you are mowing the lawn be mindful. Are you mowing too low and preventing the lawn from retaining more moisture? How thick is the thatch layer? Should you be bagging or let the grass out onto the lawn? When you are buying groceries at the store be mindful. Is this locally grown? How many ingredients are in this? Will this give me cancer? Is the more expensive brand even really worth it?

This concept was first brought to my attention in 2010 when I was part of The Kung Fu Body program. At the end of every month we partook in "Mindful Consumption". Now at this time we've been working out our bodies more than most people ever do every single day. We have been following a regimented diet based on our bodies and our goals. Typically you are eating quite a bit of vegetables and fruit everyday so you are also eating healthier than most these days as well.

However with the "Mindful Consumption" we were allowed to eat ANYTHING we wanted, so long as we were truly present. To feel the texture in our mouth as we ate that piece of chocolate, the way it melts on your tongue. How every single note of flavor is there to be understood and heard. Those subtle nutty and sweet flavors you can find in a properly aged cheese or how coffee beans grown in different regions can have a vast array of flavors from chocolatey to a lighter tangier almost lemony lift on the tip of your tongue. To truly be mindful of every single moment in the experience. These are the roots of a true connoisseur.

You should try to do this as often as possible because over the days you will find that you are more present in the NOW. You enjoy each bite that much more, you are more fulfilled by your experiences, not just thrusting off seeking the next to appease your wants. I suggest you begin to implement this into every day experiences rather than letting life pass you by. This is it! THIS IS LIFE! Enjoy it! For everything that it is. Don't let mindlessness over take, take back your freedom to experience. Slow down each moment by being mindful to whats in front of you. What is in your hands, who is near by, what is happening right now!? Only you are left to know and to be there for it!