Discovering Joy in the Present: A Mindfulness Practice Inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh

This is one of the greatest lessons my teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh, taught me.

Pause right now...take a few breaths...check in with yourself. How do you feel in this moment?

Not every moment might feel full of sparkle and wonder, and that's ok.

We all experience times when we're tired, overwhelmed, distracted, or feeling down. Maybe you're facing challenges, or a loved one is struggling, and you don’t feel quite up to it.

Whatever the reason a specific moment may not feel like one of our best, it’s perfectly alright.

The beauty of Thich Nhat Hanh’s wisdom is that it invites us to drop a little deeper into the truth of the Now, just as it is.

Sense how you're feeling right now.

Acknowledge all you found on the surface, and then let your awareness expand a bit.

Look around. What do you see?

Are there colors around you that bring you joy, peace, or inspiration?

Is there something from nature- a tree, a bird, a soft breeze, a puffy cloud in the sky?  

Can you spot someone you love or appreciate, or even a stranger who might smile back if you greeted them?

Think about the meal you last had- full of nourishment for both your body and your mind.

Can you wiggle your fingers and toes? Give it a try.

And how does it feel to take a slow, smooth breath in and out? Just notice the sensation as you breathe.

Is your heart beating?

Can you sense as you feel for it how your beautiful, courageous heart is beating in time with the Universal heartbeat that connects us all?

Consider this moment once again, and consider the remarkable existence you hold within it.

Can you sense the quiet wonders accompanying you as you stand at this corner of Here and Now?