Be still.

Two words that are becoming harder and harder to do, in such a busy world.

But why? Why is it that the one thing that calms our mind, rejuvenates our soul, and frees our spirit, is so challenging to us? Why are we so easily distracted? Why do we flit from one thing to another, seeking something more, something else, something better?

Be still.

Two words that are so powerful. Yet so hard to master.

Be still.

It's hard to master, because human beings are driven to want more. And that's not a bad thing. The need for more has helped us to evolve, to grow, and to achieve the amazing technological advancements that we so freely enjoy today.

But the need for more can also be all-consuming. The need for significance; attention; purpose; direction; education; more, more, more. The need for more is what drives us, yet it can also inhibit us as well. It can suffocate us, causing confliction, guilt and stress over how we spend our time.

So how do we learn to be still again?

Mindful moments.

Take mindful moments whenever, and wherever you can. Re-train your brain to think about mindful moments the way you do food. Just like food nourishes the body, mindful moments nourish the mind and soul. Keep these three healthy, and the balance of your triad is complete.

So what is a mindful moment?

It is whatever you need it to be, to allow your mind to be still, just for a moment.

• It could be closing your eyes and breathing - in and out, for ten seconds.
• It could be stepping outside and staring at a flower, or watching the trees move in the wind
• It could be lying on your back and watching the clouds move by.
• It could be staring at the water in a glass; not thinking about whether or not it's half-empty, or half-full, just looking at it.
• It could be sitting on a park bench and watching people walk by.

The key in taking your mindful moments, is understanding that humans are habit-seeking creatures who love repetition. The more you do this, the more you'll seek it out.

If you need to set a timer on your phone to remind you at first - do so. Just don't place pressure on yourself. Take your moments when you can, and just let yourself be. If it doesn't work, try again. And again, and again, until you get to the point where you crave your mindful moments, just like you crave your morning smoothie.

Be still.