Today is a GREAT DAY to be in the present!

Today is Election Day in the United States. Traditionally, today can bring the full spectrum of emotions...all of which are rooted in our focus on either the past or the future. With the full understanding that the outcome of this election may or may not be something we like, it's important to remember that we can ACCEPT many things we may not like, and cannot control. The only thing we have any control over, really, is the present moment.

One of my favorite strategies to focus my attention on the NOW (have you ever wondered why positive affirmations all begin with the words "I am.."?! is focused meditation. Find a quiet place (if you can!), pop some binaural beats in your buds, pods, or phones, and check in with your breath. Your breaths come in the present, so they're a great place to set your focus. Close your eyes, or divert your gaze toward the ground. Notice the in-breath. Feel the air move into your nostrils. Does it feel warm or cool? Notice the sensationof the air as your belly muscles expand to accept your deepest breath. Next, exhale out of your mouth until you're empty. Repeat for whatever time you have available. Remember the Zen Buddhist saying:

"You should sit in meditation for twenty minutes everyday - unless you're too busy; then you should sit for an hour."

While your focused on your breathing in your comfy, quiet space, your mind will wander out of the present moment ("What's for dinner?", or "Can you believe she SAID that?!" are common examples). It's good, because this is where the MAGIC happens! When your mind drifts, notice, then accept that this has happened, and bring your attention back to your breath (and, most importantly) without judgment. Our ability to practice noticing and accepting when our mind leaves focus on the present is KEY to our personal peace and happiness. Remember: practice makes PROGRESS, and we become what we habitually do. As always...

Happy snacking!

Charles

Head chef