Prior musings have outlined a method of optimizing physical, mental and spiritual health by focusing on self-care and embracing the mindful attitudes of non-judgmental acceptance, patience, curiosity, trust, non-striving,letting go and kindness. This musing explores using mindful attitudes and practices to savour and appreciate our day to day experiences.
Our modern society promotes rushing and multi-tasking. We take pride in more, faster, better.
Not only is this a recipe for fatigue and burnout, but full moment-to-moment awareness can be lost. Slowing down, simplifying and mindful “uni-tasking” promotes savouring and living life in “full colour” instead of the “black and white” blur caused by hurrying. Our bodies and minds work much better when we slow down and savour.
We benefit from paying full attention to all experiences, whether pleasant, unpleasant or neutral. It is easier to savour pleasant experiences such as a beautiful sunset, wonderful concert or happy celebration. . During pleasant events, it is delightful to savour the sights, tastes, scents, sounds and sensations.
When we encounter difficulties, we may instinctively distract ourselves to avoid discomfort. Savouring the situation may be last thing we want to do. Given that “what we resist persists”, consider bringing full attention to unpleasant situations. Attitudes of mindful curiosity and non-judgmental acceptance can give non-reactive perspective. We can then savour and appreciate the situation and our resilience. Even though savouring unpleasant events seems counterintuitive, it does reduce the extra suffering caused by resistance.
Savouring experiences is difficult when we are too burdened with numerous daily tasks and distractions. Simplifying our lives by having a shorter “to do” list promotes opportunities to savour. Reminding ourselves that we are human beings, not human “do-ings” may help. Mindful awareness of our tendency to fill up every available moment may help us make the choice to slow down and simplify our lives. Any guilt or fear of missing out can be noted and allowed to pass. We can learn a new habit of making space for savouring.
Frequently hitting the “pause button” as we go about our day allows awareness and attention to flourish. We give ourselves the opportunity to savour and appreciate the events of our day. The benefits of living life in “full colour” instead of the “black and white” blur of busyness will become more and more apparent.
Emotional regulation , clear problem solving, creativity ,connection and enjoyment of life are all enhanced by slowing down and savouring.
Mindful Home Practice:
Pause frequently during your day. Ask yourself if you are rushing, distracted or not fully present at those moments. Consider tuning in with your five senses. Can you bring the same level of mindful interest to both pleasant and unpleasant events? With practice, this mindful savouring can permeate all aspects of your life.