A common concern clients and others share with me is the constant busyness of the mind. Sometimes people intentionally avoid quiet so they don't have to be alone with their thoughts. Also common.

And so we fill up the space. Listening to a podcast while walking, pulling out the phone when standing in line at the store, watching TV while eating. And most of us, I expect, do this to some extent. It becomes a habit.

We're not weak because our mind feels too busy. An untended mind can be an uncomfortable place, and most of us were never shown how to be in it. And for some of us, exploring what's there is best done with a therapist.

Mindful Invitation: I invite you to do one ordinary thing without adding something to it. Allow yourself to be present in those moments, whether it's washing the dishes or staring out the window. The mind may continue to chatter. That's normal. No need to do anything about what comes up. Just notice.

© Stephanie Lewis Photography