The human mind is incredibly inquisitive. We are wired to seek answers, find solutions, and problem-solve. It can feel uncomfortable—even unnerving—to be lost in a situation that seems to have no resolution. Yet these are the times that teach us to open our minds to new possibilities, including the possibility that it is skillful to know how to dwell in unanswered questions.

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

What might it feel like to let go—even for a short while—of wishes, expectations, and everything you think you know? To not only think outside the box, but to throw away the box altogether? Can you make space for freedom today?

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

​Summer is nature’s time to grow and expand with wild abandon. Our human lives, too, are abundant with people, systems, commerce, complexity, and a multitude of choices. This can be helpful and also overwhelming. Sometimes, paring back to simplicity is in order. Less can be so much more.

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

In nature, a perennial flower reaches full bloom and then fades, crumbling back into the ground. And when all the elements and rhythms align, it sprouts anew. The darkest hours of the night eventually return to light. We, too, must sometimes reach our darkest hour, crumbling to our core. And when the timing is right, we slowly return to life. Like the pause after the exhale that lingers, until finally, the next inhale unfolds.

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

You are stronger than you know. The mind loves to wander into the past and project into the future. But when we rest our attention inward, we are in essence pooling all of our energy within, grounding and centering. Rest within, even if you’re resting in the middle of your own discomfort. This builds strength and resilience. You are stronger than you know.

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

Sometimes we think having something or achieving something will bring happiness. True, it is wonderful to celebrate the wins. And perhaps we might also acknowledge the happiness available along the way. Just having and envisioning a goal can bring us joy. Working toward that goal has its own rewards. And once we’ve achieved it, we’re often ready to move on to something else. Happiness can be found in the little pleasures along the journey.

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

Forgiveness is the bold act of declaring that you no longer wish to carry the hurt and resentment of the past and no longer wish to be the victim. Anger, shame, and guilt are powerful energies and can serve a purpose. And carrying these burdens over decades takes its toll. Forgiveness is an act of kindness for yourself and has nothing to do with the offender. Whether you’re forgiving another, yourself, or life itself for the hand you’ve been dealt, it takes great strength to let go and move on.

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

Feeling scattered or out of alignment? It may be a good time to reconnect with yourself. Notice any sensations that happen to be present in your legs right now…in your belly…in your back…in your chest…in your arms…in your head. Notice your breath…your state of mind…your mood. Nothing special to do but simply to notice, acknowledge, and check in. Reconnecting mind, body, and breath is a vital skill.

In mindful presence,
Lori Furbush

In a split second, something that is uncomfortable or difficult can trigger your nervous system into fight-flight-freeze mode. We are wired this way so that we can move quickly and increase our chances for survival if the difficulty is truly a threat. However, even an unkind word, an unpleasant sound, a bit of bad news, or just a thought or memory can trigger this same reaction. While not life threatening, we are still thrown into fear mode. These are the moments when breathing can help. A deep belly breath regulates your nervous system and helps you transition from fear thinking to clear thinking.

In mindful presence,
Lori Furbush

Carrying resentment and suffering is a heavy load that only hurts ourselves and not our offenders. Anger and fear are powerful energies that help us survive dangerous moments, but are not meant to last forever. When the drama quiets, it is time to begin the process of letting go. To release what is no longer useful, it can be helpful to move the body, shift unhelpful thinking patterns, and find emotional and social support. Release on all levels.

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

You are unique. There is no one else in the history of humanity like you. Celebrate your individuality. When we find peace within ourselves, we allow others to do the same.

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

Discontent arises when we want something different. Much of our inner dialogue involves wanting this and resisting that. While we need our perceptions and preferences to navigate choice in life, we also need time resting in the contentment of just being.

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

​ORDER
 
Some of us just seem to function better when things are in order. A well-planned schedule, a clean house, and a clear path might open the door for clarity of mind. But how often is life orderly? We live in times of chaos, complexity, and uncertainty. Perhaps true order is the capacity to remain fully present and centered in the midst of disorder. This is our work—to practice being while surrounded by doing.

In mindful presence,
​Lori Furbush

​Life can surely be serious and challenging. So much so that we may have forgotten how to have fun. As the days are getting warmer and brighter, it is the perfect time to welcome spontaneous playful moments.
 
In mindful presence,
Lori Furbush

Spring is in the air and new growth is sprouting up everywhere. Time to see the world through fresh eyes and open ourselves to new possibilities. When we think we know everything there is to know about something, it is time to reboot and start anew.
 
In mindful presence,
Lori Furbush

Sustaining awareness is perhaps the most important practice in our evolution. We humans have parts of the brain and nervous system capable of observing our own thoughts and emotions. In observing, we see thoughts and emotions for what they are—passing experiences—and can reframe unhelpful thoughts. This allows more space for compassion and more clarity in aligning with our integrity.
 
In mindful presence,
Lori Furbush

​We are living in uncertain times. It is uncomfortable to dwell within so many unanswered questions. Sometimes we can find meaning in moments of awe. Struck by the beauty of the ocean, a tree, or the deep blue evening sky, we experience our aliveness. Looking around right now, notice something that sparks your aliveness.
 
In mindful presence,
Lori Furbush

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it can be helpful to stay present one task at a time, one breath at a time. Slow down and be with what you are doing right now. Everything will flow with you and in its own time.
 
In mindful presence,
Lori Furbush

​It is sometimes easy to sleep through life. We get lost in our thoughts. We get lost in our feelings. We get lost in some distraction to avoid feeling. “Waking up” to the moment is the practice of remembering to tune into the bigger picture. Sense your deep connection with life and nature all around. Feel the ground and the sky. Awaken to your belonging.
 
In mindful presence,
Lori Furbush

It’s hard to be in those in-between moments, wanting a fix or a conclusion that never seems to happen. Sometimes we can find peace in letting go of trying to get somewhere and instead experiencing where we are, even if the present moment is uncomfortable. It can be helpful to remember that, with every breath, we’re receiving, releasing, and processing. The physical body is flowing and processing nutrients and air. Mentally and emotionally, we’re processing life events. Everything is always in flux, even when we seem stuck.
 
In mindful presence,
Lori Furbush