Mindfulness in Modern Times

Just Be in the Present

Have you ever walked into a room and forgotten why you were there? Or sat down to eat your favorite dish, only to realize you didn’t really taste it because your mind was lost somewhere else?

That’s how most of us live—either racing toward the future or dragging the weight of the past. The mind is like an overenthusiastic time traveler. It imagines joy in upcoming holidays or success in future goals, while also revisiting past regrets, failures, or heartbreaks. And in doing so, it often skips the now—the very moment where life is actually happening.

But here’s the beautiful truth:
The present moment is all we ever truly have.
And being in it—really in it—can bring a sense of peace, calm, and unexpected joy.

But How Do We Stay in the Present?

Let’s be honest—staying in the moment isn’t easy. Especially when your phone is buzzing, the mind is anxious, or your heart is excited about tomorrow. But even in the busiest or messiest parts of life, there are ways to gently bring your attention back to now.

Here are some simple, practical exercises to help you become more mindful—no yoga mat, incense, or mountains required!

1. Tune Into Everyday Sounds

Wherever you are—home, school, office, or a noisy street—pause for a few seconds, close your eyes (if safe), and just listen.

Can you hear the sound of a ceiling fan? Birds chirping? Distant traffic? Maybe someone talking or laughing?

Example: While waiting for your tea to boil, close your eyes and just listen to the whistle, the bubbling water, and the background hum of your house.

You’ll be surprised how much life is happening around you when you pause to notice.

2. Observe Movements Around You

Look around you and focus on motion. Count how many things are moving—leaves fluttering outside, people walking, your pet shifting in sleep, or even the blink of your own eye.

Example: At a cafe, instead of scrolling your phone, just notice the subtle dance of life—cups clinking, baristas moving, steam rising, people smiling or frowning.

This shifts your mind from auto-pilot to awareness.

3. Engage in Small Conversations

When was the last time you had a real chat with the shopkeeper, the security guard, or even your sibling?

Next time you’re surrounded by people, instead of staying stuck in your phone or your thoughts, initiate a simple conversation.

Example: A “How was your day?” to your classmate or a “What’s your plan for the weekend?” to a colleague can ground you instantly.

Human connections pull us back into the now.

The Power of Being Here

Being mindful doesn’t mean escaping reality. It means embracing it—as it is, without judgment.

The next time you’re brushing your teeth, walking to work, eating dinner, or even doing nothing—try to be fully there. Notice the flavor, the feeling, the surroundings, and most importantly—yourself.

Life is not happening yesterday or tomorrow. It’s happening right now—in this breath, in this step, in this smile.

Stay present. Stay peaceful. Stay you.
With love and awareness,
Yash Dubey
Founder, YouthVeda