Being Present

Being present for our children is one of the best gifts we can give them.  Children know when we are not focusing on them.  It is also important to be present with ourselves.  Conscious breathing, or longer exhale than inhale can help our body calm down.  It has been said we can change our lives in we just breathe concsiously a few times a day.   The most acclaimed parenting programs focus on parents taking care of themselves so they keep calm which, in turn, keeps children calmer. It is a true phenomenon called “mirror neurons”.  We mirror each other and so if we want those around us to be calmer and more peaceful, we must cultivate that peace within.  What can you do today to cultivate your peace inside?  On that note, it is time for me to get out and take a nice walk in this wonderful weather in Northern MI.  I am once again visiting my wonderful nephew and sister and brother-in-law in MI.  Enjoy this day and be in gratitude for all you have, that is going to be the focus of my walk.