Redefining Stillness in a Busy World
Let’s talk about stillness. If that word makes you picture long meditations or a silent retreat somewhere remote, you’re not alone! There’s this idea that stillness requires stepping away from everyday life, silencing your mind completely, or taking a long pause from the world. But in reality, stillness can be way simpler, and way closer, than that.
Stillness isn’t about shutting down or forcing your mind to go blank. It’s about finding a little pause here and there, a moment to reconnect with yourself even while life keeps moving around you. It’s like a breath of fresh air between all the “doing,” giving you a chance to just be for a second.
Stillness Isn’t “Doing Nothing”
It’s easy to confuse stillness with inactivity, but you don’t have to stop your whole day to find it. Think of it as shifting your focus from what’s next on your list to where you are right now. Sometimes, that’s as simple as taking a breath between emails or slowing down for a minute before you start your next task. It’s in those little moments where you stop “doing” and let yourself just “be”—no to-do lists, no rush, just a moment to check in with yourself.
Finding Stillness in Small Moments
Now, you might be thinking, “Where do I find this stillness?” Don’t worry, you don’t need hours to make it happen. Stillness can happen in the smallest, most ordinary moments.
Between sips of coffee: Instead of scrolling, take a second to enjoy the warmth of your cup and savour that first sip.
While washing the dishes: Feel the water, listen to the clink of the plates. Just notice the little details for a few moments, as simple as they are.
As you switch gears: Moving from one task to another? Take a breath before diving into what’s next. These pauses help you stay grounded and present.
These small, intentional moments may not feel like much at first, but over time, they build up. They help create a rhythm of calm in your day, a foundation that keeps you feeling more centred, no matter how full your schedule gets.
When we think of stillness as something woven into daily life, it becomes a lot more approachable and doable. You don’t need a mountain view or a yoga mat to feel calm and connected. Every little moment of stillness you take is a chance to tune back into yourself. It’s a reminder that you’re right here, right now, fully alive in this moment.
So, go ahead and invite those moments in. Maybe it’s a deep breath before the next email, a mindful sip of tea, or a few seconds of stillness at a red light. Each of these is a chance to ground yourself, to come back to who you are, and to let go of all the “doing” for just a bit. Stillness isn’t somewhere out there; it’s in the moments you create, one small pause at a time.