In This Moment – a Mindful Meditation for the Non-Meditator

Sitting still isn’t really my thing. I prefer to be moving and on the go. And yet, in those rare moments where stillness is achieved, it is unquestionably refreshing and something of which I want more.

“Calmness is the cradle of power.”

Josiah Gilbert Holland

I’ve tried to meditate in the past, but it seemed that every physical discomfort that was coaxed into submission was brought back to life with a vengeance. There was no calm, no peace, just a hyper-awareness of the pain in my knees, ankles, hips, shoulders and neck.

“The best cure for the body is a quiet mind.”

Napoleon Bonaparte

One of my struggles with meditation was knowing what to do and what not to do, what to think or not think. Was thinking to be avoided? Isn’t meditation about the pursuit of an empty mind? Impossible.

“Quiet the mind and the soul will speak.”

Ma Jaya Sati Bhagavati

Then I found a simple but profound way to quiet my mind, and my body, and soul. The only goal was to recognize one thing in the present moment. Then repeat.

With a slow breath in, I think to myself, “In this moment…” Then when I exhale I note one thing I notice about the present moment. It may be as simple as the sound of the fire, or the feel of the cool breeze on my face. Whatever it is, I acknowledge it and begin again. (Inhale) “In this moment… (exhale) I am happy to be home and not traveling.” (Inhale) “In this moment… (exhale) I’m grateful I have books to read.” (Inhale) “In this moment… (exhale) there are no unkind words being spoken.”

“Be happy in the moment, that’s enough. Each moment is all we need, not more.”

Mother Teresa

I find that gratitude is easy to find in these quiet moments. I’m reminded to appreciate the simple things. I also find I can separate myself from painful events by staying focused on the present moment. The past is not here, nor is the future. In this moment, I am fine.

I’m not exactly sure if my quiet, “In this moment…” reflections count as real meditation, but I do know the practice has helped me find stillness and peace in my otherwise fast-paced world. Maybe being “in this moment…” can help you too. Good luck.