Question: So Much On My Mind - What Do I Do?

I lose sleep, I lose focus and I have a difficult time relaxing.

There's so much on my mind and I don't know how to shut it off.

What do I do?

Focus on your present.

It's a gift that can free your mind.

When we have a lot on our minds, it usually means one of two things:

1. We're reliving the past

2. We're worrying about the future

What about the 'Right Now'?

If you have a difficult time clearing your mind, a simple technique is to focus on what's going on right now. Wherever you are, be more present. Feel your skin. Inhale deeply. Notice all of the colors around you. Check in with all of your senses. Be mindful of all that is around you as it is in the moment.

You can't focus on all of that AND everything that was on your mind before. This doesn't mean that you neglect your responsibilities so that you can sit around. Instead what it means is that in all you do - be fully present in what you're doing.

Taking a shower? Sing! Feel the water against your skin! Be fully present in your body as its feeling of refreshment takes over.

Eating? Savor the flavor! Be mindful of each chew and enjoy the experience!

Listening to music? Let it fill your body! Move with the rhythm. Sing along (or lip sync). Perform your own private concert in your mind.

Laying in bed? Feel yourself sink into the mattress! The sheets and blankets over your body and the pillow cradling your head. Feel it. Describe it in vivid detail. List all of the things about it that you enjoy. As you are comfortable in your sleeping position, release the fatigue of the day as you prepare to rest. 

Deliberate focus in this manner takes focus away from whatever may be "on your mind". This doesn't suggest that you take mental energy away from anything requiring a resolution. Instead, it helps bring focus to the importance of the present sense of self.

Carpe Diem. Seize the day, starting with your present moment.