Little Zen Masters: How Children Teach Us The Art Of Being Present

childlike wonder into our lives

Hello there, fellow dreamers, seekers, and digital nomads! Or, as I like to say, aspiring members of the "Slow Living Society." What's that, you ask? Well, it's just a little nickname I've come up with for those of us daring to defy the 24/7 hustle culture, yearning to truly experience every moment, just like... children. Yep, you heard me right!

"Children? You mean those adorable, sticky-fingered creatures who consider a mud puddle their personal spa?" That's exactly who I mean! You see, kids might just be the greatest zen masters walking this planet. And they're living right under our noses—or tripping us up with their toys, if we're being more precise.

A Walk Down Memory Lane—On a Tricycle

Remember when you were a kid? Your world revolved around your next playdate, not your next appointment. Your greatest worry was whether you'd have ice cream after dinner, not your overflowing inbox. You were, without even realizing it, living in the present moment. According to positive psychology, living in the present, or "being in the here and now," means being fully aware and mindful of what's happening at this very moment.

Living Life One Playtime at a Time

Children are naturals at this. They're not fretting about yesterday's math test or tomorrow's dentist appointment. They're knee-deep in making a sandcastle, completely engrossed in the now. As we grow older, we often lose touch with this ability. We're constantly planning, worrying, dwelling. It's time we took a page from the messy coloring book of our children.

What the Lego Movie Didn't Teach Us

Now, I'm not saying we should all start sticking macaroni art on our fridges or rolling around in the dirt (unless that's your thing—no judgment here!). But we can all learn a thing or two from how children interact with the world around them. And no, this doesn't involve using Legos as a foot reflexology mat!

Stop! Pajama Time Can't Touch This!

Take, for example, how kids embrace the simple things: a good bedtime story, the first snowflake of winter, or even just a cozy pair of pajamas (don't tell me you've forgotten the joy of a new PJ set!). Their eyes light up at these moments—not because they're thinking of how to capture it for their nonexistent Instagram feed, but because they are genuinely soaking in the joy of the experience.

How to Be a Big Kid—Embrace the Little Things!

It's time for us to start incorporating this childlike wonder into our lives. But how, you ask? It's as simple as it is challenging. We need to make a conscious effort to live in the present, to fully engage in the moment at hand, whether that's a conversation with a loved one or just a solo coffee break.

And now, my lovely readers, it's time for my call-to-action, or rather, call-to-relaxation:

Today, make an effort to be more like a kid. Take a long walk without worrying about your step count. Taste your food without contemplating its calorie content. Have a chat without glancing at your phone. Be here, now. Embrace your inner child and become a master of the present moment!