Author: Dalena Quach 

Step 1: inhale

Step 2: exhale

These two easy steps are the key to being present. 

In her book, Beyond Guilt Trips, Dr. Anu Taranath provides the recipe to mindful travel amongst an unequal world. Advocating for equity, compassion, and understanding when interacting with others across the globe, Taranath emphasizes one key element to being present: breath.

Taranath says that breath is needed to be present within ourselves. Once we are there, we can be present with others. She captures this in a statement, "True presence with others is predicated upon true presence with ourselves." 

Amongst the jumble of thoughts and emotions in our own minds, our ability to be completely present with others is clouded. Taking a breath clears this fog, revealing a clean slate in which we can listen intently and empathetically. 

By taking a breath to disconnect from our own thoughts, we can reconnect to the present moment. We inhale clarity, and exhale distraction. Taking a moment to pause, to breathe in…. and out… we disengage from the clutter of our own thoughts, and we can engage with others. 

Here at PlusOne, we hold space for everyone. We want to engage with our communities, especially promoting mindfulness in everyday practice. Our upcoming Hit the Deck event provides a Mindfulness Pledge challenge in which participants can pledge to do 15 minutes of yoga practice for every dollar donated to them. More information on this event here.

Taking a simple breath to create space for ourselves to be present, we can hold the space necessary to listen to others. Whether in world travels or in everyday practice, it is important to create this mindfulness through your inhales… and exhales… . 

References: Taranath, Anu. Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World. Between the Lines, June 7, 2019.