This last weekend was very busy for me – it included some events as well as visiting some friends and family. I am a little tired from it, but it wasn’t that bad, and I think I know why. It was a weekend where I actually just “rolled with it” and didn’t spend time thinking about what else needed to be done. Instead of thinking about where I thought we should be and when that should happen, I just let it go. I just lived. Instead of doing I was being. What a great way to lose some of the tension and expectation. What a great way to enjoy a weekend!
What made this weekend less stressful for me? I think a couple of things helped. First, a regular meditation practice continues to help me focus on the present instead of thinking about all of the things that need to be done. This is definitely still a work in progress, but I notice little improvements here and there, this past weekend being one of them. Focusing on the present helps you to worry less about the future. It also can help you to spend less time dwelling on the past. The second thing that I think helped was getting some exercise early on in the weekend. My family walked a 5K last Saturday morning, and I think that was a great start to our weekend. We got some exercise, we got some fresh air, and we got to spend time together as a family. Lastly, I think spending some time outside was helpful as well. Nature has some wonderful ways of settling your emotions and giving you things to focus on in the present.
After looking back on this weekend I am thinking we might be on to something – a family walk on Saturday mornings, if possible. And, based on the goals I have, that may turn into a family jog. Regardless, I am excited that I may have stumbled upon something that is beneficial to both my family and me.