Being in the present seems to be a simple idea, but is one of the profound and demanding disciplines of human life. It is a proven fact that the quality of awareness in the present shapes the overall quality of life. In Yoga the mind is described as a field of fluctuations (Chittavritti). These fluctuations pull back into the past through memory and regret or into the future through anticipation and anxiety. The purpose of Yogic practices is to still the mind so that it can naturally rest in its pure form. This state is not an escape, but a deeper immersion into it. When one is truly present, perceptions become clear, actions precise and inner conflict reduced. Modern positive psychology echoes this through the concept of mindfulness. This concept of mindfulness is one type of meditation ascribed to Buddhism.

 

This mindfulness is not a relaxation, but an active non-judgemental awareness of the present moment. Psychological research shows that most of human distress comes through rumination about the past or the worry about future. Depression has often a backward looking bias, while anxiety is typically future oriented. Being in the present interrupts this vicious cycle. It allows us to respond rather than react and observe rather than being overwhelmed. Neuroscience provides a fantastic biological basis for this experience. Studies using brain mapping imaging have demonstrated that when the mind wanders, the default mode network of the brain becomes active.

 

This is associated with self referential thinking and essentially the constant narrative we carry about ourselves. It is normally associated with stress, anxiety, and a sense of reduced well being. Practices like Pranayama and meditation have been shown to quiet this network and enhance the activities in the regions associated with attention and emotional regulation such as prefrontal cortex. From Yogic perspective it closely aligns with moving from the Manas (mind) to Buddhi (intellect). When awareness is anchored in the present, the higher faculties of discrimination and clarity come into play. One begins to act with intention rather than impulse.

 

This is not the suppression of thoughts, but the mastery over them. An interesting bridge between these fields lies in breath. Yoga considers breath as a link between the body and the mind. In neuroscience controlled breathing leads the nervous system from sympathetic fight and flight to parasympathetic rest and digest mode. This psychological shift creates the internal conditions necessary for present moment awareness. Thus, something as simple as consciousness breathing is a great tool of mental stability.

 

However, it is not a one time achievement, but a continuous process. The mind’s tendency to wander is natural and even inevitable. Discipline lies in bringing it back again and again to the present moment awareness. This repeated act is really transformative. Over a period of time it reshapes the neural paths commonly known as neuroplasticity. Being in the present does not mean to neglect the past or ignore the future, but to engage with them with full awareness. Decisions about the future become sharper and reflections on the past turn less burdensome. Anchoring awareness in the present is living the life in its true sense. (The writer is Former DG Police & CG, Homeguards, Maharashtra) ■