Despite the busy lives most of us lead, we don't have to let the frenetic pace of the world control us. It is possible to be more conscious and calm in our daily lives. Today's post is on staying calm despite the distractions of the day.
This week I returned from a lovely European vacation that I shall remember forever. As a writer, a European vacation provided many opportunities to observe.
Our group was composed of folks from all over the United States, Canada, and Australia. Our tour guide was Spanish and we had various other guides from the different countries we visited. It was quite an active tour but I noticed something. Despite the crowds and the schedules, our tour guides were not frenetic nor did they appear stressed or rushed. The one lady guide in Toledo was particularly at peace. Her walk and her speech were slow and deliberate. She had an air of authority and control about her despite the crowds and the lines.
In Spain, the lifestyle is quite different from that of the United States. The stores close in the after-noon for folks to go home, have a good meal, and maybe a nap. They enjoy their dinner later in the evening with friends and a good bottle of wine.
On the contrary, the American lifestyle is quite different. We run ourselves ragged all day, grab a quick lunch if we pause to have lunch at all. Dinner with family is usually reserved for sundays. We are constantly on the phone or the computer and how many of us make time to nap? I know I do.
Maintaining a calm and staying present is a practice. Life throws us many different situations particularly when we step outside our comfort zone or we're moving too quickly. I have sticky notes to remind me to take breaks and slow down. Each day is an opportunity to learn and to practice.
When we stay calm and connected, we are less likely to react emotionally. We can make better decisions and we expend less energy. We are able to stay in the present moment and be more aware of our circumstances and surroundings. We won't be as exhausted by the end of the day.
We're all on this journey together so be kind to yourself and to others along the way. If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends, leave a comment or click the +1 icon. If you'd like a copy of my free e-guide entitled "7 Steps to Finding Your Spiritual Path", enter your email address in the box provided to the right.
In the meantime, stay calm and keep looking up!
Ariel