Mindfulness in Action

On a clear 75-degree August morning at the lake, I carefully pushed offshore in my
inflatable kayak (also known as “Zossy’s boat”) with a head full of distraction and a foot
full of broken and injured toes. Feeling ungrounded and stressed about having too little
time and too many tasks, I began to paddle. Zossy and I set out to reframe and
rejuvenate.

This is what I do most mornings to prepare for the day. Intentional time for mindfulness.
Noticing that my muscles were somewhat tense and my thoughts were racing from task
to task, I began to glide across the lake. Hearing the sounds of the paddle dipping into
the water and the splash of nearby jumping Rainbow trout, I slowly began to smile- I
was in my happy place with my favorite paddling buddy. Watching the bubbles on the
water and the osprey, bald eagles and Canadian geese flying overhead, my breathing
began to slow and deepen. Noticing thoughts of gratitude emerging and the agitated
stress response decreasing, I focused on only what was before me, not the past, not the
future.
I was observing the return of the flow state.
This was a poignant reminder that one of our most needed tools is always right in front
of us. Mindfulness. Being in the moment. Noticing the here and now.
Ask yourself-where is my Happy Place? It may be somewhere physical, emotional,
mental or spiritual. There may even be several places to help you be present. What can
you do to Be Here Now?

As our time on the lake ended and I gingerly climbed out onto the muddy shore, I
noticed that my thoughts were clearer and although the day was packed with tasks, I felt
more capable of prioritizing and achieving what was needed.
Breathe, notice, don’t judge or evaluate, just be present.