As I was sitting on the plane yesterday, returning from a long weekend in Florida it occurred to me that I was feeling completely contented and blissful. How did I come to realize that? I think it was because I suddenly became aware that I don’t feel that way often enough, as hard as I might try.
Instead of worrying about what I had to do when I got home, I was just enjoying the moment. I was feeling grateful that I got away for a few days and that I got so much rest and relaxation in short time. I was remembering that boredom and contentment sit right next to each other on the emotional scale – and that to some people my vacation might have seemed boring. For me it was perfectly paced to avoid stress and let me just BE.
I come away with a few more ideas for how every day can be filled with more contentment, even when I am not on vacation:
- Limit exposure to news and media to just a quick overview. Avoiding the negativity, especially in the early part of the day is precious and necessary.
- Spend time outside and notice the details through the senses. Winter in Ohio can be a challenge for doing this, but it can happen nonetheless. Take time to smell the air, feel the wind, see the life forms, hear the birds and appreciate the beauty of your world.
- Move the body. Getting exercise whether on vacation or at home is a great way to be involved in the present moment, keep the body healthy and to appreciate your abilities. Even if you don’t like to exercise, think of the contentment you will feel when it is over!
- Pay attention to how your feel – both physically and emotionally. The body and the emotions are constantly sending to signals to help you prioritize and experience life. If your body is feeling good – that is a time to notice and express gratitude. If you are experiencing pain or symptoms, stop and explore what’s going on and why? Bring in a professional opinion if needed. The same goes for emotional pain. It is impossible to be content until you are in touch with your inner compass.
- Identify some way you will express yourself today to reflect your values or passions. If you love your work, you will have many opportunties for this in your day. If you are struggling with work that doesn’t fit you, making time for your true passions outside of work is critically important. Integrating passion can include chosing to read an article or a book, watching a movie, listening to a favorite song or creating something using one of your many talents. It need not be a huge chunk of time, but when it is part of each day it makes a positive difference.
Commit to more contentment and find ways to bring it to your life. Even if life gets a little boring, know that you are just a short distance away from bliss!
