By Kavya Thathsarani

Life moves pretty fast. Like ‘blink and you miss it’ fast. Between studies, work, social media, and all the endless notifications, it’s easy to find your mind somewhere else entirely. Maybe you’re stressing about tomorrow’s plans, last week’s awkward conversation, or even something that is totally out of your control. Sound familiar?

The truth is, most of us spend way too much time living in the past or future and not enough time actually living in the moment. What if you could hit pause and truly soak in the right now? This exact second? It turns out that’s where the real magic happens.

Why Does Living In The Moment Matter?

When you’re fully present in the moment, you start noticing the little things in life. Things you usually don’t pay attention to or ignore. Like the way the cat is sleeping peacefully in the corner, the way sunlight seeps through your window, or just how shadows slow dance on the floor. It could be even something like the taste or smell of your morning coffee…These tiny moments might seem small or ordinary, but they build up to a whole lot of joy and a sense of belonging. 

Being present also helps you handle stressful situations more smoothly, instead of spiralling into “what if?” or “if only…” you’re focused on what’s actually happening at the moment. That helps you keep your head clearer and your mood better. Being in the moment also helps you connect more with the people around you. Just think about how different a conversation with a friend would feel when you’re really listening versus when your mind is elsewhere. 

How to Get Started

It’s simple, but slowing down when life gets loud can be tough. Here are some easy ways to practice living in the now.

Put your phone down (even just for a bit). Try going 5 or 10 minutes without scrolling and actually look around. What do you see? Hear? Feel? It could be the sunset, the birds chirping, or even the cool wind brushing past your hair. This little break helps you reconnect with your surroundings instead of the endless online noise. (It could feel like there's a whole different world full of life and joy outside your day-to-day life bubble!)

Breathe... Sounds basic, but deep breaths can ground you. Try inhaling for four seconds, holding for four, and exhaling for four seconds. It not only calms down your nervous system but also helps you focus better, too!  

Focus on one thing at a time. Whether you're eating, walking, reading, or chatting with someone, give that your full attention. Multi-tasking might seem like a superpower, but it just makes you more physically and mentally tired. 

Notice your feelings without judging them. It's totally okay to feel anxious, bored, or even excited with or without a valid reason. Observe those feelings like you're watching clouds float by. Don't try to push or force them away. Let them be there. 

Take little pauses here and there just to check in with yourself. How are you feeling right now? What's happening around you? This small habit can build awareness over time, and this could be really useful, like when you're doing stressful but important tasks. 

Real Talk: It's Not Always Easy

Sometimes your brain won't just cooperate. It wants to jump to the next thing or replay the cringe moment from years ago. It's just how the human brain is! The key is not to beat yourself up but to gently bring yourself back to the present. Again...and again.

Remember, living in the moment isn't about being perfect at mindfulness. It's about practice, patience, and being kind to yourself as you learn and grow. So take it slow. 

Why Start Today? 

Let's be honest...the present is the only moment you really have control over. The past is locked, and the future is a mystery. But this, right here, is your chance. So whether it's noticing the colours changing in the sky, listening to your friend, or just breathing through a tough moment, permit yourself to be here. Because honestly? Life's too short to live anywhere else!