STOP.......LOOK.......LISTEN.......

Earlier on today when I was returning from my daily power walk I was struck by the busy traffic and how rushed we all become at this time of the year. We are constantly reminded of how many shopping days there are left before Christmas and our thoughts about preparations and plans can force us into thinking very far ahead. People are busy making arrangements and days just disappear. How many times have you heard someone say "I don't know where this year has gone" I know that I have frequently said it myself. I find that my walk becomes an oasis of calm (if a little breathless calm) in the structure of the day.

With the media pushing us to think ahead it can be hard to remain in the present, we all talk about the plans we have made which again turns our focus to the future. In doing this we miss out on really appreciating and enjoying the present, it passes in a blur. So perhaps when you are walking between home and work, school, shops or wherever try to take time to actually think about your journey. STOP and LOOK around you, appreciate where you may be walking and practise being in the present - not thinking about what has just happened or rushing forward to the next thing in your day - just being in the now.

Maybe avoid the temptation of using your mobile phone to call someone and concentrate on what is happening for you right now. I have felt really sorry for dogs since mobile phones have been invented. Before mobiles, a dog owner and their dog would enjoy the walk together, the owner's attention would be on their dog and their relationship would be strengthened. Now the number of people I see walking their dog and talking on their phone is tremendous, the dog trots along beside their owner but for most of the time they are completely ignored as the owner chats away to someone who isn't present. Why not try taking our dog out and spend some uninterrupted time together, I am sure that both of you will benefit.

Trying to remain in the present moment even if it is only for a small part of the day will help us to preserve a calm centre which in turn will help us as we face the inevitable rush and panic of this time of the year.

So remember to STOP......LOOK......LISTEN and enjoy!!