The Practice of Being Present

Yoga teaches us how to reestablish the innate balance that exists between body, mind, and spirit. When our minds get out of balance, they overextend, becoming busy and overworked. As a result, we lose connection to the wisdom of our bodies and the depth of our spirits. Practicing being in the moment trains the mind to come down to size, to become an ally—and to allow signals from the body and knowledge from the deep self to come forth. Rather than focusing on what was (the past), or projecting what may be (the future), practice staying in the present moment.

Here’s a summer practice of presence for you: Go for a walk on a beautiful day. Take off your shoes and notice the texture of the grass beneath you. Feel the temperature, the dryness or humidity. Notice the sun on your arms and hands. Sit and watch the clouds as they move across the sky. Let the elements of nature be the doorway back home into the present moment for you.

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