Most of us do our best to comfort those we love when they face difficult times. The phrase “stay in the present moment” is often used in self-help as a piece of advice when dealing with adversity or anxiety. 

From my own experience, the phrase oftentimes provided no comfort at all. Although given with good intentions, it did nothing more than bring about a load of frustration and nagging questions to my mind such as: What does “stay in the present moment” even mean? 

Is it possible to hold on to the present moment? Where are the instructions for how to “stay in the present moment”? To help stop the flow of my endless questioning, the notion of present moments would eventually be tossed aside.  

Then, during a Reiki class one day, my thoughts experienced a complete turnaround when my Reiki Master/Teacher dropped a thought bomb in my lap. 

She shared the gift of the Usui Reiki Principles, beginning with “Just for today …”. 

In my mind, this simple phrase became enlightenment.
It was as if my heart and mind were made open to the idea that everything I needed to find a present moment was in this set of words. From that exact moment, I chose to include the Reiki Principles into my daily living. 

Here’s how it works for me: Each morning I start the day with a statement such as “Just for today, I will trust myself to make decisions that will be to my benefit.” 

Or, it may be “Just for today, I will eat healthy food that will keep my body strong and purposeful.” 

When faced with a difficult situation that raises my anxiety level to red alert, I may use a statement such as “Just for today, I will breathe deeply and allow this moment to pass without fear.” 

By adding this simple phrase “Just for today” to my intentions, I have found the ability to find and stay in the present moment. 

For a more detailed description of the Reiki Principles and how to implement them into your well-being journey, you can check out these articles.

Click Here:

Reiki Principles and How to Use Them to Boost Well-Being (healthline.com)

Explore the Reiki Precepts for a Flourishing Mind (chopra.com)