I have worked in healthcare for 30 years. Taking breaks, enjoying lunch (or any meal for that matter), or just relaxing has always been difficult for me and my body shows the wear of a stress-filled life. In the last year, I have developed a heart condition, and my exercise routine has essentially stopped. I have gained weight, which is taking a toll on me mentally. Although I always understood that control is an illusion, I am learning that life can have a different vibration; a slower and deeper tone if I let go of the need to control everything. I am learning to allow silence to enter my life. To shut out the constant noise and distractions that are all around me.
Silence is not merely the absence of sound but a presence—a space where thoughts can unfurl, emotions can settle, and the soul can find its rhythm. It is in these quiet moments that we reconnect with ourselves and with something greater than ourselves. Silence allows us to hear the whispers of our innermost thoughts, the gentle nudges of intuition, and the profound insights that get lost in the chaos of daily life.
To savor the present is to immerse ourselves fully in the moment, to experience life as it unfolds without the burden of past regrets or future anxieties. It is about finding joy in the simple things—a warm cup of tea, the rustling of leaves, the rhythm of our breath. Savoring the present requires us to slow down, to step away from the hurried pace that modern life often imposes. When we live in the moment, we become more attuned to the beauty and richness of life that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Living a slower, more intentional life is not about doing less but about doing what matters most. It’s about prioritizing quality over quantity, depth over breadth. By embracing a slower pace, we create space for reflection, for deep connections, for meaningful work. This approach to life brings a sense of fulfillment and contentment that cannot be found in the rush to achieve or accumulate. It allows us to cultivate gratitude, to be more present with those we love, and to live in alignment with our true values.
It’s a daily practice and sometimes I am successful and other times I am not. I am finding that the rewards of slowing down are profound, which encourages me to try again every morning to be mindful, and grateful for all that God has given me. In doing so, I feel more connected to the world around me, more grounded in my values, and more at peace with myself.
Silence, presence, and intentionality can become the anchors that guide us all, allowing us to live a life of purpose and grace. Here are some ways to begin to live a slower, more intentional life:
Mindful Gratitude
Pause and Notice: Throughout the day, take moments to pause and appreciate your surroundings, your health, or the simple pleasures in life. This could be the taste of your morning coffee, the beauty of nature, or a moment of quiet.
Savor Experiences: When something good happens, don’t rush past it. Take a moment to fully experience and appreciate it. Allow yourself to soak in the positive emotions.
Focus on the Positives
Reframe Challenges: When faced with difficulties, try to find something to be grateful for in the situation. It could be a lesson learned, personal growth, or simply the strength to get through it.
Appreciate the Little Things: Gratitude doesn’t have to be reserved for grand gestures. Practice noticing and appreciating the small joys that often go unnoticed.
Make Gratitude a Shared Practice
Gratitude Discussions: Share what you’re grateful for with friends or family, perhaps at the dinner table or during a walk.
Gratitude Jar: Start a gratitude jar where everyone in your household can drop in notes of things they’re thankful for. Periodically, read them together and reflect on the good things in your lives.
Be Consistent
Daily Practice: Consistency is key in developing a gratitude habit. Even on challenging days, find at least one thing to be thankful for, no matter how small.
Celebrate Progress: Over time, you’ll notice a shift in your mindset. Celebrate this progress and continue to nurture your gratitude practice.
I would love to hear how you are practicing the two gifts for every day: mindfulness and gratitude! Email me your story at heatheranne@calmjourney.org
May God’s fingerprints be all over your day.
Heather
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