“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes … including you.”   -Anne Lamott

It’s important to allow yourself to slow down, take a break from hectic schedules, unplug from devices and distractions.  Some people power nap or meditate.  Mindfulness is another option for enjoying peace in the present moment.  In this space, there are no worries about the past or future.  It’s an opportunity to observe and become immersed in your sensations and surroundings.  It can be as simple as sitting quietly and feeling your breath, noticing how thoughts dissipate when you’re still, experiencing the beauty of nature.  Yesterday, I sat near the ocean appreciating every aspect of the moment:

• Mesmerized by sunlight sparkling on the ocean
• Watching every beat of a butterfly’s wings
• Noticing drops of water shimmer on rose petals
• Feeling the lulling effect of waves rolling into shore
• Catching a random rainbow in a bevel of glass
• Admiring Birds of Paradise pointing to the sea

I heard a loud flapping sound and turned to see a Seagull perched on top of a lounge chair next to me.  He eyed the sandwich waiting for me as I wrote.  Then gave me a look as if to say are you going to eat that?  If not I will. I quickly grabbed the sandwich and he flew away.  The relaxing afternoon was just what I needed to recharge. I packed up my things to head home.  I found the seagull floating in the pool.  Guess he was having his moment to “chill.”