18 Dec Live in the Now

*this post is sponsored by American Eagle x ShopStyle; however all opinions are my own*

Leave it to December to stir up anxieties of the future and regrets of the past. This December in particular makes it hard to live in the moment and practice mindfulness. As we come to the end of a decade we are all in reflection mode, reliving and reflecting over the past 10 years of our lives. Semisonic said it best… “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” So, as we close out the year in reflection, we are simultaneously bombarded with thoughts of the future. What will the next 10 years of my life be like? What do I need to do and plan and execute in order to get there? These are all necessary thoughts and actions… but where is the room for right now?

During a time where it may be most difficult to do so, I challenge you to find time to live in the now. Below are a few ideas to help you be more mindful of the present featuring MOOD. MOOD is a new wellness collection, available exclusively at AE, featuring products made for everyone and infused with CBD extract, which is known for calming and soothing benefits.

1- Focus on your breathing. Taking deep breaths and really focusing on the rise and fall of your chest is one of the quickest ways to be more present. It’s even better if you add in a little aromatherapy. My current go-to is this roll on from MOOD x American Eagle. It’s a blend of essential oils with a little citrus kick. I love to just roll it in my palms, rub them together, and take a few big whiffs of my palms.

2- Meditate. Meditation is a great way to incorporate stillness into your life. I spend 7-10 minutes every morning meditating to jumpstart my day.

3- Take a bath. Turn off the day before and the days to come. Be intentional about being present. Focus on the warm water, the smells, the sound of the music you may have playing, the flickering light of the candle. Try to be as present as possible. To help relax I recommend the Fresh Eucalyptus CBD-infused Bath Soak from MOOD.

4- Turn your phone off for a moment. Nothing makes us relive the past or panic about the future more than the things in our phones: apps, social media, bill alerts. These things distract us from the present and place our awareness and thoughts elsewhere.

5- Pamper yourself. Spend time with your body, your hair, your skin. A great way to do this is to incorporate MOOD into your routine. The CBD infused products will help relax you without making you feel “high” or “stoned”. MOOD is available at American Eagle, or you can shop the products HERE.

What are some other ways that you guys practice mindfulness?