FOCUSING ON THE PRESENT

Often, uncertainty is associated with worrying about the future and thinking about all the bad things that might happen. Having thoughts like this can make you feel hopeless and depressed about the future. If you worry too much about tomorrow, you can’t fully appreciate today. It can also cause you to see your problems as more serious than they are. Instead of attempting to predict what might happen, concentrate on what’s currently happening. Focusing on the present will help you avoid worrying about the future because if you are fully present, you can interrupt the negative assumptions and negative predictions that are running through your mind.

Researchers found that mindfulness practices, including present-moment awareness, may reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. When we focus on the present moment, or the “here and now,” we are aware of what is happening at the present time. That means, instead of being distracted by the past or worry about the future we focus on the present and what is happening at this very moment. Each time you start worrying gently focus your attention back on the present. As you practice mindfulness over time, you’ll be happier and more relaxed – as well as able to calm your mind, ease stress, and improve your overall mood.

Dr Ora Marx