Yesterday as I entered my favourite local café I was warmly greeted and asked if I was having my usual. While this is not unusual I was, in that moment, overcome by a feeling of joy and gratitude. There was something so comforting about the ease and familiarity with which I was greeted; my favourite table empty, waiting for me, and the café’s warm and cosy atmosphere. I think the fact that I’ve had a challenging week meant that I needed and, therefore, appreciated this sanctuary more than usual.
As I sat there enjoying my lunch I started thinking about the joy that can come from such simple things; things that are so easy to overlook and that we so often take for granted. I also started thinking about the fact that when something is so comforting, so easy, so enjoyable, why would we ever try anything new? Isn’t it when we step out of our comfort zones that we grow and develop and, all going well, derive the most satisfaction?
I suppose, like so much in life, it’s about getting the balance right. Remembering to savour and appreciate what is comfortable and familiar while continuing to be adventurous and try new things. Knowing that the comfortable and familiar is there when we need to stop and regroup can give us the strength to keep going. It certainly did for me this week.
And, speaking of cafes, I have another little mini meditation for you. If you buy a coffee in the mornings you can use this as an opportunity to more consciously engage your senses. Doing so brings you into the present moment and your mind and body will begin to relax.
As you are waiting for your coffee to be made try:
tuning into to the sound of the hissing steam as the milk is being heated – engaging your sense of sound;
paying attention to the delicious aroma – engaging your sense of smell;
and, as you drink, really noticing and savouring the flavour – engaging your sense of taste.
Try it, it’s a wonderful way of bringing a moment of mindfulness into your every day!
