Finding Peace in the Present: A Guide to Mindful Living

Let’s be honest—life can be a bit of a circus, can’t it? One minute you’re sipping your tea, feeling vaguely in control, and the next you’re knee-deep in emails, laundry, and an existential crisis about whether you’re living your “best life” or just surviving on caffeine and good intentions. I get it. I’ve been there. In fact, I think I’ve set up camp there a few times.

But here’s the thing—amidst the chaos, there is a way to find peace. And no, it doesn’t involve running away to beach in Costa Rica (tempting, I know). It’s all about mindfulness. Now, before you roll your eyes and imagine me chanting on a yoga mat in the middle of a field, let me assure you—mindfulness is for everyone, not just for the zen gurus and people who wear flowy linen trousers.

I’ve had my fair share of life’s curveballs—failed plans, unexpected detours, and a personal collection of “why me?” moments—but what’s kept me going is learning how to be present. So, if you’re ready to swap stress for serenity (or at least learn how to stop losing your keys every five minutes), grab a cuppa and let’s dive in.

What Even Is Mindfulness? Other than the latest hipster buzz word…….

Mindfulness, in simple terms, is about paying attention to the present moment. That’s it. No mystical jargon, no complicated techniques—just being here and now. Whether you’re washing the dishes, walking the dog, or stuck in traffic behind a tractor (ah, rural life), mindfulness is about fully experiencing what’s happening without getting lost in the mental spiral of “What’s for dinner?” or “Did I turn the oven off?”

It’s about slowing down that whirlwind in your head and actually living rather than rushing from one thing to the next. And trust me, when you master it—even just a little bit—it’s a game-changer.

Why Is It So Hard to Be Present?

Because we’re human. And humans are notoriously bad at just ‘being’. Our brains love to drag us back to the past (“Why did I say that awkward thing in 2013?”) or catapult us into the future (“What if everything goes horribly wrong?”). Add social media into the mix, and we’ve got a constant stream of distractions and perceived expectations pulling us away from the present moment.

If you’re anything like me, your mind has the attention span of a goldfish on a sugar rush. But the good news? Mindfulness isn’t about perfection; it’s about practice.

How to Start Your Mindfulness Journey (Without Losing Your Mind)

Alright, let’s break it down. Here are a few simple, no-fuss ways to bring mindfulness into your everyday life—without having to retreat to a monastery.

1. Breathe Like You Mean It

Breathing—it’s something we do all day, every day, but how often do we actually notice it? Mindful breathing is one of the quickest ways to hit the pause button on a busy mind.

Try this:

• Take a deep breath in through your nose for four counts.

  • Hold it for four counts.

• Exhale slowly for four counts.

• Repeat a few times and notice how your shoulders start to unclench.

It’s like a mini holiday for your brain, and best of all, it’s free.

2. The ‘Tea and Toast’ Technique

If there’s one thing we Brits know how to do, it’s drink tea. Next time you’re making a cuppa, instead of rushing through it, slow down and notice each step. Feel the warmth of the mug, inhale the aroma, take that first sip like it’s a hug in a cup. Put your phone down and enjoy the tea! (Here is my favourite tea: https://amzn.to/41u9QPu)

Mindfulness doesn’t have to be a big dramatic event—it can be as simple as enjoying a piece of toast without simultaneously scrolling through your phone. Trust me, toast tastes better when you’re paying attention.

3. Ditch the Multitasking Madness

We all think we’re expert multitaskers, but let’s be honest—trying to do five things at once usually ends in disaster and even if your neurodivergent brain makes it a necessity… it’s still a marginally chaotic one. The next time you’re doing something (anything), try doing just that thing. Whether it’s cooking, listening to your friend moan about their boss, or walking through the countryside—be fully there.

You’ll be amazed at how much more enjoyable things are when you’re not mentally writing your to-do list at the same time.

4. Laugh More (Even at Yourself)

Life’s too short to be taken too seriously. Finding humour in everyday moments is one of the most mindful things you can do. Whether it’s laughing at your own mishaps (I once wore tights with no skirt  to a meeting and only realised halfway through) or watching silly videos that make you giggle, laughter pulls you right into the present.

5. Get Outside and Soak It All In

Living in a rural area has so many perks—fresh air, scenic views, and the constant reminder that nature isn’t in a hurry, so why are we? Taking a mindful walk, even for 10 minutes, can do wonders. Notice the crunch of leaves underfoot, the birds singing their little hearts out, and the ever-changing sky.

And if you’re lucky enough to have sheep nearby, they’re surprisingly good company for a mindful moment. Just don’t expect them to offer any life advice.

The Benefits (a.k.a Why this should not be just another blog you read and then ignore)

Practicing mindfulness isn’t just a trendy wellness buzzword; it actually works. Here’s what you can expect:

• Less Stress: Your overthinking brain gets a much-needed break.

• Better Sleep: No more 3 a.m. anxiety spirals.

• More Joy: You’ll start noticing and appreciating the small stuff.

• Stronger Resilience: Life’s curveballs won’t knock you down so easily.

And perhaps most importantly, it helps you feel alive, rather than just existing on autopilot.

When Mindfulness Feels Impossible

Look, I won’t pretend it’s always easy. Some days, mindfulness feels as achievable as winning the lottery. Life gets hectic, emotions run high, and sometimes you just want to binge-watch Netflix and ignore reality.

That’s okay. The key is to be kind to yourself and keep coming back to the present moment, even if it’s just for a few deep breaths between the madness. My beautiful friend Erin left me one of the most priceless pieces of advice just before she died…. It’s ok to be sad just don’t stay there.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Mindfulness isn’t about achieving some perfect state of inner peace (if only!). It’s about taking small, consistent steps to live more fully in the now. Whether that means slowing down with a cup of tea, going for a mindful walk, or just remembering to breathe when life feels a bit much—every little bit counts.

So, next time you find yourself spiralling into stress about the past or the future, take a moment, breathe, and remind yourself: Right now is enough.

And if all else fails—there’s always tea.

What’s your favourite way to find peace in the present? Let me know in the comments, and let’s share a little mindful magic together.

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