Control!
Being "in control" is a big issue in most people's lives. Most of us are uncomfortable being out of control. It brings anxiety, uncertainty, confusion, panic, and a loss of self-confidence.
It may not seem obvious, but if you live entirely in the present, then you are in control. Your body must be functioning well in order for you to feel that you are in a state of well-being. You can't be in control without a good night's sleep, because poor sleep leads to hormonal imbalances and several other problems. You need a steady flow of energy from regular eating habits and a whole-food diet. There can't be constant stress, which steadily erodes the body's ability to rebalance itself. Chronic low-grade stress is a major hidden health hazard in our modern lives.
The Present Moment
According to Deepak Chopra, "We are also embedded in the field of infinite intelligence that we call consciousness, but unlike a cell, we can lose contact with that field." Being in control requires that we tune in to the level of consciousness that isn't disturbed by external stress. This is actually a natural steady state. Unfortunately, our lives with its stress, distractions, and fast pace, remain steady and be in the present moment requires us consciously be mindful. How, then, do we cultivate present-moment awareness and stay in control?
If you are present in the here and now, you are in control. When we practice meditation for a period of time, it's much easier for us to remain mindful and to return to present-moment awareness. You can quickly return to a state of awareness! Find a quiet place to be alone, close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and find your center again.
Join us at Satsang House, San Diego’s premier meditation center, to learn how to set a solid foundation of mindfulness into your daily life. Or consider coming to one of our classes or signing up for an online course!
