December is here. In most parts of the United States, it's a time to bundle up for rain, wind, snow or just a bit more crisp of a winter's day. Regardless of what holidays you celebrate, this month is an invitation to gather with friends and family somewhere warm and enjoy some winter moments together.
The theme of this month’s article is "Being in the Moment", an idea that seems to be talked about everywhere today. For me, being in the moment means being fully engaged in my current experience without my mind getting lost in past thoughts or future projections. A life-long practice, being in the moment can bring more richness and aliveness to experiencing life. As quoted by Cesare Pavese on my tea mug this morning, "We do not remember the days…we remember the moments."
So, what does this have to do with recreation and play? It’s obvious, isn’t it? Our recreation and play moments are often times of full engagement in our current activity. These are times when we are exactly where we are; when, for that instant, nothing else exists. We serve the volleyball in the warm gym. We sled down the hill and crash into the snow bank. We taste the hot chocolate. We walk through the still woods and listen to the sound of the snow crunch with each step. We see a bright winter bird. We open a gift from its shiny wrapper. We jog and feel the cold air touch our lungs. We raise our glasses with friends. We sing. We play football in the street. We splash in puddles. We write. We read. We listen to the wind.
This month's invitation to play is this— just notice what moments bring you fully into the present moment. What recreation and play activities serve as your unique gateway to the richness and aliveness of your life right NOW? This is a practice in noticing what you love. From that alive place, you get to choose what seeds to plant for the upcoming year. What magic moments will you create? How will you foster your aliveness?
Happy Winter. Happy Holidays. Happy Moments to All.
Lori Stelling is a Life Coach, workshop facilitator, keynote speaker, cooperative games specialist, and former recreation supervisor. With a dynamic background in coaching, advanced Riso/Hudson Enneagram studies, and recreation, Lori brings a spirit of playfulness and depth to her work. She created her business, BlueWater Coaching, in 2004. www.bluewatercoaching.net
Email: lori@abalancedlifemag.com