Mind Full Vs. Mindful

When my mind is full, there is constant chatter. The voice inside is reminding me of my to-do list, a conversation I had the other day, my past loves, the future possibilities, everything. If I’m focused too much on the past I find regret sneaking in, wondering if I made the right choices or said the right things. When I look to the future, anxiety is right there telling me to panic and fear uncertainty. Doesn’t this seem silly? Always tainting the present moment with memories of the past or expectations for the future?

That’s where being mindful can really help. To be mindful is to simply play close attention to something. Mindfulness is not about shutting the mind off, it’s about fully engaging it in the present moment. Instead of scrolling on my phone while on the train, I can look around and people watch. I can read the signs on the cars. Instead of listening to music on a scenic walk, I can take in the nature, using my thoughts to wonder what bird I just saw or which animal I heard.

Practicing mindfulness in the present moment, I can find a nice remedy for overthinking, anxiety, and regret. Slowly, slowly my mind will become quieter and quieter until the voice only lives in the present.