Contact with the present moment |
We humans find it difficult to stay focused in the present moment. Our minds tend to leap about from mulling over past events to anticipating future problems. This makes it difficult to be fully engaged in what is going on, right here and now.
In order to get the most out of rowing - whether you competing, on a social row or helping with repairs - it is important to be fully connected to the present moment. This involves using your senses, noticing and naming what is going on both within and around you.
There there are lots of ways to learn how to make contact with the present moment. We can do this both while rowing but also in lots of other ways. |
Does the word 'mindfulness' make your heart sink with thoughts about having to find 20 minutes in your day to sit down and focus on your breath? DON'T PANIC!!!
ACT distinguishes between mindfulness as a formal meditation practice and mindfulness skills. ACT teaches mindfulness skills which are highly individualised and flexible approaches which you can combine with all sorts of normal daily activities like sitting on a bus, washing the dishes and having a cup of tea. To learn more about this distinction have a look at this article, and have a look at the video. |
Another key exercise in ACT is called 'dropping an anchor' (lots of boat-related metaphors in ACT!) and I encourage you to get to know it well. It is about contacting the present moment but also plays an important role in learning acceptance skills.
Have a look at this link which provides more information in audio form from Russ Harris. Scroll down to the MP3 section. I would suggest listening to the recording about the purpose of dropping anchor first. Then maybe start with the 7 or 11 minute versions to learn how to do this exercise. https://contextualconsulting.co.uk/insights/free-act-resources-from-russ-harris |