For the past year I have been meditating using an iPhone App called Headspace. It is an effort on my part to find a way to reduce stress and be more present. What I have learned is that it works! It has afforded me an opportunity to be more mindful of the people around me and lower my level of anxiety. This lower level of anxiety allows me to be more creative in my work and has enhanced my relationships with my friends and family.
So, why am I telling you this? Well, because I think it might help you too. By taking 10-20 minutes a day to relax your mind and create a little head space, you can be more aware of those around you and in the moment rather than mentally racing ahead through your day, your week, and your life.
Recently, the guided meditation asked me to reflect on the question, “How would you feel if this were your last day?” Every day, for six days, as I contemplated the question, I had different feelings emerge. One day, I felt relieved that I would no longer need to struggle with the daily challenges we all face in our work. Another day, I felt disappointed in that I have left undone or unsaid. And yet another day, I felt calm and relaxed knowing that there was no tomorrow. I then thought to myself, how would it feel to live as if there were no tomorrow? By this I don’t mean act irresponsibly but rather to live deliberately in the moment much as a child does being totally present.
By now, if you’ve read this far, you are chuckling or thinking I’ve gone off the deep end. No, just giving myself some head space – stepping back from the rush of daily life to focus on what is important to me and those I care about. With all the activities that fill our day, what truly matters to you? Take a moment to step back and ponder that question. Your answer may surprise you, and it may change each day.
So, at the risk of sounding like a salesperson for Head Space, I would encourage you to sign up for their free, 10-minute, 10-day, guided meditation. Get yourself some head space in the hectic world that we have created. You and those you care about will be glad you did.