Gift giving season is here. What do people really want from you? I bet what they really want is YOU. Your attention, fully and freely given, is the best present of all. My family is seven hours away, and while I totally enjoy the anticipation of their reactions to the gifts I bring, what is really special is just being there with them. Listening to my mom, sisters, brothers, in-laws, nieces and nephews is what makes my memories.
Sitting with a loved one, eye to eye, and sincerely listening can be a joy. Being present is about observing without judgement; allowing others to think what they think and not take it personally. This is not always easy, convenient or possible, and it takes some practice.
Perhaps you can start with yourself. Take a few minutes to check-in with yourself by asking yourself how you are doing or feeling. Then breathe and wait. First, your brain will rattle off reasons why this is silly, or your to-do list will form in your head. Keep breathing and waiting. Do a head to toe (or vice versa) internal scan to see what you can notice or feel about your body. Notice it, then move your awareness somewhere else. See if you can do this and give yourself five minutes to start with and gradually increase it. (For other strategies Andrea is available for private mediation sessions.)
Another way to be present for yourself is to come in for massage, acupuncture or yoga. While your body is here, see if you can keep your mind here too. I know, I know, bodywork bliss-out is relaxing and beneficial in its own way, but try to see if you can notice the changes that may happen in your session. Maybe you feel the Qi moving when Hardin or Andrea places a needle. Maybe you notice that when Mandy or I work your leg that something opens or twitches somewhere else in your body. See if you can be present for yourself for a little bit during your session and you may come out of it with new understanding of yourself. Practicing non-judgement and being present for yourself enables you to do the same for others.
In this present filled season, remember that your presence, to really be present, can be the best present of all.
Mary Pat Curran, LMT at Stream Point Wellness
