Welcome, listeners, to this exploration of the timeless phrase "Live in the moment," the heart of mindfulness that invites us to embrace the present amid life's rush. In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, constant notifications and endless scrolling pull us away, fueling anxiety and disconnection, as noted in recent discussions by mindfulness expert John Kettzin at a November 2025 conference on challenges in the field.

Yet science backs its power. A University of Southampton study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology reveals that just ten minutes of daily mindfulness slashes depression by 19.2%, cuts anxiety by 12.6%, and boosts wellbeing by 6.9%, with effects lasting a month later—encouraging healthier eating, exercise, and sleep. PubMed Central research confirms mindfulness reduces emotional reactivity, enhances self-awareness, and fosters resilience by breaking negative thought loops.

Experts like Jon Kabat-Zinn, speaking at Dartmouth in April 2025, highlight how it builds societal compassion through brain changes observed in neuroimaging studies. Dan Harris, a top 2025 mindfulness speaker, shares his pivot from a live panic attack to advocacy via his podcast, while Jay Shetty, former monk turned influencer, champions purpose-driven presence.

To cultivate this, try this brief guided meditation: Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and breathe deeply. Notice the air entering your nostrils, cool and fresh... filling your chest... then releasing slowly. If your mind wanders to worries or plans, gently return to your breath. Do this for two minutes daily.

Practical tips? Pause before checking your phone—ask, "Am I here now?" Eat one meal mindfully, savoring each bite. As Dr. Ben Ainsworth from Southampton affirms, apps make it accessible, turning tech from distraction to tool.

In 2025's whirlwind, living in the moment isn't escape—it's empowerment. As Kabat-Zinn envisions, it paves a mindful future. Start today, listeners, and feel the shift.

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Live in the moment. You hear this phrase everywhere, yet in a world of notifications, breaking news, and endless scrolling, it can feel almost impossible to do.

Mindfulness is the practical side of “live in the moment.” Researchers writing in the journal Frontiers in Psychology describe mindfulness as paying attention to the present, on purpose, with openness and curiosity. Clinical reviews from the National Institutes of Health and the American Psychological Association report that mindfulness training can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, improve attention, and increase overall well-being by breaking cycles of rumination and emotional reactivity.

Today, leading voices like former news anchor Dan Harris, author Jay Shetty, and many experts featured at global conferences on mindfulness describe the same core idea: when you gently return your attention to this breath, this body, this conversation, you create a pocket of calm in a noisy world. Harvard researchers studying mindfulness-based therapies for depression have found that training attention on “here and now” sensations can interrupt the spiral of self-critical thinking and help reshape brain networks involved in mood.

Let’s try a brief guided practice together. As you listen, simply notice your experience.

First, become aware of your body. Feel where your feet touch the floor, the weight of your body being supported. Let your shoulders drop a little. Notice any tension, not to fix it, just to acknowledge that it is here.

Now, bring attention to your breathing. Feel the air moving in and out. You do not need to breathe differently. Just follow one full inhale, and one full exhale. When your mind wanders, as every mind does, kindly note “thinking,” and escort your attention back to the next breath.

Finally, notice your emotional weather. Name, silently, whatever is here: “stress,” “tired,” “okay,” “numb.” According to many clinicians and meditation teachers, this simple naming, without judgment, can soften the intensity of difficult emotions and build resilience over time.

Staying present in a fast-paced, technology-driven world is hard. Interviews with mindfulness experts on podcasts and webinars emphasize the same challenges you face: constant digital distraction, pressure to be productive, and the fear of missing out. To live more mindfully, they suggest a few realistic habits.

Pick micro-moments. One mindful shower, one mindful cup of coffee, or the first 60 seconds after you wake up. During that time, feel sensations, smell, taste, sound, without multitasking.

Create tech boundaries. Turn off nonessential notifications. Move at least one app off your home screen. Many mindfulness coaches working with big tech companies talk about this as redesigning your environment so attention is a choice, not a constant battle.

Anchor to daily transitions. Each time you close a laptop, step out of your car, or walk through your front door, let that be a cue for three slow breaths. Experts at recent mindfulness and lifestyle webinars describe these “transition rituals” as a powerful way to reset your nervous system throughout the day.

And remember, mindfulness is not about having no thoughts or being calm all the time. As one CBS-featured mindfulness expert recently put it, it is about being willing to feel uncomfortable and stay present anyway.

So when you hear “live in the moment,” think of it not as a slogan, but as a trainable skill: noticing, breathing, and beginning again, right where you are.

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Live in the moment is more than a slogan; it is the everyday language of mindfulness, the practice of bringing full, nonjudgmental attention to what is happening right now. Researchers writing in Frontiers in Psychology describe mindfulness as a trainable skill that increases awareness, emotional balance, and resilience, and numerous clinical studies reviewed by the National Institutes of Health show that it reduces anxiety, depression, and emotional reactivity while improving well-being and self-control.

When we talk about living in the moment, we are talking about stepping out of automatic pilot. The American Psychological Association reports that mindfulness practices enhance concentration, mental clarity, and metacognitive awareness, helping people notice their thoughts instead of being driven by them. Harvard-affiliated researchers have even documented brain changes in patients practicing mindfulness-based therapies, including areas linked to emotion regulation and stress.

In a fast-paced, technology-driven world, staying present is hard. Constant notifications fragment attention, social media fuels comparison, and 24/7 news cycles keep the nervous system on high alert. Mindfulness experts such as Jon Kabat-Zinn, often called a pioneer of secular mindfulness, emphasize that this is exactly why practice matters now: it offers “a love affair with life,” even amid overload, by returning us to the simplicity of breath, body, and sensory experience. Contemporary speakers like Dan Harris, whose on-air panic attack led him to meditation, use podcasts and keynotes to show that these skills are practical tools, not spiritual luxuries, for people in high-pressure environments.

Listeners, as you hear this, you can try a brief guided meditation. Gently notice your breath wherever you feel it most clearly. Allow one slow inhale, one slow exhale. Feel your feet on the floor, the contact of your body with the chair, sounds around you. When your mind wanders, as it will, simply notice “thinking” and come back to one more breath. Neuroscience reviews in journals like Clinical Psychology Review suggest that even short practices like this, repeated regularly, can reduce rumination and improve mood.

To live in the moment in daily life, experts interviewed by Mindful Teachers and other education-focused platforms recommend small, realistic shifts: single-task one routine activity a day, such as drinking your coffee without a screen; build tiny “tech pauses” before opening an app; and anchor yourself with sensory check-ins—what you can see, hear, and feel—whenever stress spikes. Over time, these simple habits turn live in the moment from a cliché into a way of inhabiting your own life with more calm, clarity, and kindness.

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Live in the moment is more than a slogan; it is the everyday language of mindfulness, the practice of paying deliberate, kind attention to what is happening right now. Researchers writing in Frontiers in Psychology describe mindfulness as a trainable skill that reduces anxiety, softens the impact of trauma, and supports overall mental health by grounding people in present-moment awareness. The American Psychological Association reports that such present-focused attention improves emotional regulation, boosts self-control, and decreases rumination and negative mood, which is why mindfulness-based therapies are now widely used for depression and stress-related disorders. Harvard researchers have also found that mindfulness training can reshape patterns of brain activity in people with recurrent depression, supporting resilience and relapse prevention.

Today, live in the moment is being explored on stages, in clinics, and in podcasts. Jon Kabat-Zinn, whose mindfulness-based stress reduction program helped bring meditation into mainstream medicine, has recently spoken about how training attention can buffer people against the health costs of chronic stress in modern life. Mental health organizations such as the Mental Health Foundation highlight that simple mindfulness practices—like feeling the breath or noticing sounds—can reduce everyday stress and support emotional balance.

For listeners, I want to offer a short guided practice. If it is safe to do so, gently close your eyes or soften your gaze. Notice one breath, from beginning to end. Feel where it touches the body: the coolness at the nostrils, the rise and fall of the chest, or the movement of the belly. When your mind wanders, as every mind does, mark it with a quiet thank you for trying to protect you, then escort attention back to this single breath. Stay with three more breaths in this way, letting each exhale be a small release.

Mindfulness teachers interviewed on platforms like Mindful Teachers often say the hardest part is not meditating on a cushion, but staying present in a world of notifications, deadlines, and constant breaking news. Practical strategies include setting brief phone-free pauses between tasks, taking one conscious breath before opening email, and choosing one daily activity—like showering or making coffee—to do without multitasking. According to the Mental Health Foundation, even a few minutes of this kind of intentional presence each day can build a more stable, compassionate inner life.

As listeners move through the rest of the day, consider this: live in the moment does not mean ignoring the past or future. It means meeting this moment—whatever it holds—with attention, curiosity, and care.

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# Live in the Moment: The Science and Practice of Mindfulness

The phrase "live in the moment" has become ubiquitous in modern wellness culture, but this ancient practice of mindfulness carries profound scientific backing. At its core, mindfulness represents a deliberate shift in how we experience daily life, allowing listeners to engage fully with the present rather than dwelling on past regrets or future anxieties.

Research demonstrates that mindfulness meditation produces measurable changes in brain function and emotional well-being. Studies show that regular practitioners experience reduced stress levels, decreased anxiety and depression symptoms, and improved emotional regulation. Brain imaging reveals that mindfulness increases activation in regions associated with positive emotional states while reducing activity in areas linked to rumination and worry. For listeners struggling with the relentless pace of modern life, this translates to genuine relief from psychological overwhelm.

The challenge of staying present intensifies in our technology-driven world. Constant notifications, social media feeds, and digital distractions fragment our attention, making genuine presence increasingly difficult. Yet this is precisely where mindfulness interventions prove most valuable. An eight-week mindfulness-based stress reduction program shows measurable improvements in mood, anxiety levels, and overall quality of life. Listeners report enhanced ability to manage emotions by noticing and naming feelings in real-time rather than reacting impulsively, which naturally improves relationships and conflict resolution.

Cultivating mindfulness requires practical commitment. Starting with brief daily meditation sessions, even five to ten minutes, establishes foundational awareness. Listeners can integrate mindfulness into routine activities—eating, walking, or working—by fully engaging their senses rather than operating on autopilot. When emotional distress arises, the practice of disengaging from upsetting thoughts and redirecting focus to present sensory experience provides immediate relief.

Recent mindfulness conferences and summits featuring leading experts highlight growing recognition of these practices' clinical value. Organizations increasingly implement mindfulness programs for employees, recognizing connections between present-moment awareness and enhanced productivity, resilience, and mental clarity. Ultimately, living in the moment isn't escapism; it's a scientifically-supported approach to navigating life's complexities with greater calm, clarity, and compassion. For listeners seeking authentic well-being in uncertain times, mindfulness offers a tangible path forward.

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Live in the moment is a phrase listeners have heard everywhere—be present, be mindful, let go of distractions. But in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, actually living in the moment presents real challenges. Notifications, deadlines, and digital overload constantly pull attention away from what’s right in front of us. Yet, neuroscience and psychology have shown that mindfulness—the practice of paying attention to the present without judgment—can be a powerful antidote to stress and a pathway to greater mental and emotional well-being.

Jon Kabat-Zinn, regarded as the father of modern mindfulness-based stress reduction, explained recently at Dartmouth how mindfulness doesn’t erase life’s difficulties but equips us to face them with resilience and clarity. According to research published in the British Journal of Health Psychology, even just ten minutes of daily mindful awareness can improve mood, decrease depression, lower anxiety, and motivate healthier lifestyle choices. Guided meditations—like those featured on the Hardcore Self Help Podcast—help listeners get started, with simple breathing exercises to release tension and anchor attention on the sensations of each inhalation and exhalation.

Renowned speakers such as Dan Harris and Jay Shetty have shared their personal journeys on popular podcasts, transforming moments of overwhelm into opportunities by embracing meditation and mindful reflection. Jesse Itzler recommends reframing every day as an experiment in being fully present—even during mundane routines, find at least one ‘anchor’ moment to reset awareness.

Listeners, staying present is not always easy. The constant barrage of information can make attention fragment and the lure of multitasking can dilute every experience—whether in relationships or personal ambitions. When interviewed on the Game Changers podcast, experts suggested actionable tips: start by putting your phone on silent during meals or walks, schedule short breaks for mindful breathing, and keep a journal to notice triggers that pull you out of the moment.

Mindfulness isn’t a cure-all, but evidence from Harvard Medical School and the American Psychological Association confirms that it helps people regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, and respond to challenges with compassion rather than impulsivity. Living in the moment is the practice of meeting life as it unfolds—one breath, one sensation, one experience at a time.

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Live in the moment. It’s a phrase you’ve heard countless times, but what does it truly mean in the era of distractions, endless notifications, and ever-rising stress? Today, we’re delving into the real science and practice behind mindfulness, exploring how being present can transform mental and emotional well-being. According to researchers at the University of Southampton, just ten minutes of daily mindfulness can boost overall well-being, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and inspire healthier habits—from better sleep to more mindful eating. These benefits were seen in people with no previous meditation experience, showing that it’s accessible to anyone willing to try.

Mindfulness speakers and teachers, such as Dr. Shauna Shapiro and Dan Harris, often explain that the concept goes far beyond sitting silently. As Dr. Shapiro notes, “What you practice grows stronger,” emphasizing that moment-by-moment attention trains the brain, increasing resilience and clarity while calming our emotional responses. The science backs this up: mindfulness activates the brain’s relaxation pathways, helps you let go of rumination, and enables more deliberate, less reactive responses to daily stressors, according to peer-reviewed studies.

But listeners, the challenge of living in the moment is real. Technology, work pressures, and even social media create mental loops and pull us away from the present. Experts like Tara Brach and Andy Puddicombe suggest starting with intentional pauses: focus on your breath for just one minute, notice the sensations in your body, or set a daily intention to check in with yourself before reacting.

Let’s try a simple guided practice together: Close your eyes and bring your attention to the inhale and exhale of your breath. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back. Label any thoughts or feelings that arise without judgment, and allow yourself to fully experience this moment, right here, right now.

Whether you’re learning from best-selling mindfulness authors, joining digital meditations from apps like Headspace, or simply taking regular pauses in your day, living in the moment means reclaiming your attention and reconnecting with what matters. As recent research and world-renowned teachers remind us, even in a fast-paced, tech-driven world, presence is powerful—and it’s possible for everyone.

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Live in the moment is more than a catchy phrase—it is the core of mindfulness, a practice with growing scientific support for improving mental and emotional well-being. Many experts say living in the moment means cultivating attention on what’s happening now, rather than letting our minds drift to worries about the future or regrets about the past. According to the American Psychological Association, mindfulness-based practices—like focusing on breath or sensations—can reduce rumination, alleviate anxiety and depression, and boost working memory and concentration.

A new study from the Universities of Southampton and Bath, published in August 2024, found that just ten minutes a day of mindfulness can significantly reduce depression, improve well-being, lower anxiety, and motivate healthier lifestyle choices. Their large-scale app-based trial showed that most participants with no prior meditation experience experienced measurable mental health gains, simply by setting aside a short, consistent daily window for present-moment awareness.

Listeners, we know it’s tough to stay present in today’s fast-paced, digital world. Notifications, social media, and endless to-do lists constantly tug at our attention. Dr. Judson Brewer, a neuroscientist and mindfulness researcher, recently spoke about how even small, accessible tools—like short guided meditations in an app—can help us notice our habits, pause automatic reactions, and find a pocket of calm amidst chaos.

To put this into practice, I invite you to pause for a quick guided check-in. Close your eyes, feel your feet on the floor, and notice your breath moving in and out. When thoughts or distractions pop up, see if you can observe them without judgment, letting them float by before gently returning your attention to the sensation of breathing. This simple exercise, practiced regularly, is shown in both the laboratory and real life to create actual changes in brain regions linked to attention and emotional regulation, according to neuroscientists at Harvard and elsewhere.

Many top experts, from Dan Harris to Dr. Shauna Shapiro, agree: mindfulness makes us more resilient, less reactive, and more capable of enjoying the good things in life as they happen. Of course, no one can be present every moment, and there will always be challenges. But returning to the moment—even for just a breath or two—can make a real difference, especially in overwhelming or stressful times.

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Welcome, listeners, to an exploration of the phrase “live in the moment”—a concept that’s become central in conversations about mindfulness and mental well-being. Today, we’re diving into what it really means to stay present, how it can benefit us, and why it’s so challenging in our fast-paced, technology-driven world.

Mindfulness experts like Dr. Shauna Shapiro and Mo Gawdat describe living in the moment as embracing awareness of what’s happening right now, letting go of distractions and judgments. Recent panel discussions, such as the 2025 Milken Institute’s “Mindfulness as Medicine,” highlight how being present fosters resilience and joy, improves relationships, and helps individuals respond rather than react to life’s ups and downs. Mindfulness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a scientifically tested approach that can help reduce anxiety, depression, and psychological distress, as found in major studies from Harvard and Southampton University. One 2024 study revealed that just ten minutes a day of mindful practice—like breath-focused attention or body scans—can significantly boost well-being and inspire positive health behaviors.

We invited mindfulness guru Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche, who teaches that meditation isn’t about escaping reality but facing it more clearly, to share a short guided meditation. So, listeners, wherever you are, take a moment: close your eyes if you feel safe, bring your attention to your breath, and notice the sensations of air entering and leaving your body. As thoughts drift in, acknowledge them without judgment and gently guide your focus back to breathing.

Staying present isn’t always easy. Technology tempts us with notifications, endless news feeds, and digital demands. Rohan Gunatillake, creator of the Buddhify app, recommends setting small boundaries, like keeping phones out of sight during meals or scheduling regular “tech-free” breaks to foster presence in daily routines.

For listeners looking to deepen their practice, start small. Notice moments of stress—feel your feet on the ground, listen to the sound around you, breathe deeply. Join affinity groups or online communities for support, especially if you feel excluded from traditional formats; this can create shared space and connection, making mindfulness accessible for everyone.

Remember, the phrase “live in the moment” isn’t just advice—it’s an invitation for greater clarity, compassion, and calm, even amidst our busy lives.

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Welcome to today’s exploration of what it truly means to live in the moment—a phrase echoed everywhere, from self-help books to social media feeds, but often misunderstood. In a world increasingly dominated by digital distractions and relentless pace, the simple act of being present has become both a challenge and a necessity for mental well-being.

Recent research from the Universities of Southampton and Bath, published in the British Journal of Health Psychology, reveals that just ten minutes of daily mindfulness practice—think relaxation, intention-setting, body scans, or focused breathing—can significantly boost wellbeing, ease depression and anxiety, and even inspire healthier lifestyle choices. In a global study involving over 1,200 adults, those who engaged in brief daily mindfulness sessions reported nearly 20% less depression, over 12% less anxiety, and a more positive outlook on health behaviors compared to those who didn’t practice.

But mindfulness is more than just a wellness trend. According to the American Psychological Association, mindfulness cultivates qualities like self-control, objectivity, and enhanced concentration. It reduces rumination—the mental loop of worry—and equips us with better strategies for regulating emotions. Neuroscientific studies have found that regular mindfulness practice is associated with tangible changes in the brain, such as increased thickness in areas linked to attention and sensory processing, and altered neural responses to emotional stimuli, making it easier to disengage from stress and choose how we respond rather than react.

Yet, in a technology-driven society, staying present is a daily challenge. Len Capozzi, a mindfulness-based psychotherapist, emphasizes that the ability to mindfully respond instead of habitually react can be transformative. His recent session with the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Foundation highlighted how intentional attention and attitude, nurtured through mindfulness, can serve as vital tools for navigating stress, loss, and even joy.

Even industry leaders recognize the value of pausing. Panels at the Milken Institute Global Conference and events like The Buddha The Scientist Symposium at Dartmouth, featuring Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn—the founder of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction—explore how mindfulness supports resilience, health, and the capacity to weather life’s ups and downs.

So, how can you begin? Start small: carve out ten minutes each day to simply notice your breath, body sensations, or surroundings. Try grounding exercises—name five things you see, four you feel, three you hear, two you smell, and one you taste. When distractions arise, gently bring your focus back, without judgment. Remember, mindfulness isn’t about perfection; it’s about practice.

As you close this session, consider this: living in the moment is less about grand gestures and more about gentle, consistent presence—a powerful antidote to the chaos of modern life. Whether through guided meditations, mindful walking, or brief pauses before responding in conversation, each moment of awareness adds up, building resilience, clarity, and a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you.

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Live in the moment is more than a cliché—it’s the invitation at the core of mindfulness, a practice science now links to well-being, resilience, and even brain health. When we intentionally shift our focus back to the present, letting go of rumination about the past or worries about the future, we can find a rare sense of calm and clarity amid the bustle of modern life. This idea is not just ancient wisdom, but a growing area of research; new studies from 2025 reveal that even ten minutes a day of guided mindfulness can reduce depression by nearly 20% and lower anxiety while increasing healthy lifestyle habits, as found in recent work from the Universities of Southampton and Bath.

Listeners often hear from mindfulness experts like Dr. Shauna Shapiro and neuroscientist Dr. Amishi Jha who echo similar findings: mindfulness empowers us to regulate emotions more skillfully, react less impulsively, and sustain our attention longer in a distracted world. As Avanti Kumar-Singh, a leading voice in wellness, shared at the recent Milken Institute Global Conference, practicing mindfulness grounds us, not by denying life’s chaos, but by helping us meet challenges with intention and grace.

But living in the moment is not always easy, especially surrounded by constant notifications and the pressure to multitask. Dan Harris, mindfulness advocate, notes that perfection is not the goal—fluctuating attention is natural, and compassion for ourselves is key. Try this: take a slow breath, notice your surroundings, and let worries pass like clouds. If your mind drifts, gently return to the present; just this simple act is mindfulness in action.

Guided meditations, whether five minutes or half an hour, help build this skill. A popular approach includes focusing on breath, tuning into bodily sensations, or counting sounds. Listeners share that this not only calms anxiety but also brightens their mood and sharpens their focus.

Experts remind us—living in the moment is less about escaping life’s problems and more about meeting each moment as it comes, with openness and curiosity. With research-backed benefits and everyday tools at our fingertips, the invitation to live in the moment is both timeless and more relevant than ever in our challenging, always-on world.

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Welcome, listeners. Today, we’re exploring the meaning and science behind the phrase “Live in the moment.” This idea, central to mindfulness, invites us to direct our attention to the present—not ruminating on the past or worrying about the future. But in a world driven by technology and constant distraction, what does it truly mean to live this way, and what are the benefits?

According to the Milken Institute Global Conference, experts like author Mary Fisher and meditation leader Avanti Kumar-Singh emphasize that mindfulness fosters resilience, healing, and true joy. They share that pausing to notice thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations—without judgment—can reduce stress and empower a sense of intention and balance in daily life.

The latest research reported by the Universities of Southampton and Bath found that just ten minutes a day of mindfulness, even through a basic app, reduced depression, eased anxiety, and led to healthier lifestyle habits in people from around the world. Even for those who’d never tried mindfulness before, tiny daily doses created measurable improvements in well-being—proof that living in the moment isn’t just a slogan but a practice that can change lives.

Harvard researchers studying the brain with MRI scans have shown that mindfulness practices reshape how the brain responds to emotional stress, helping people process difficult emotions with greater clarity and less distress. As mindfulness teacher Jon Kabat-Zinn has said, it’s possible to cultivate peace and resilience even in demanding times by anchoring yourself in the now.

Of course, listeners, many of us struggle with distractions—social media, notifications, work demands. Mindfulness isn’t about perfection; it’s about gently guiding attention back to this moment, over and over. Try this: pause, feel your feet on the floor, notice your breath, listen to the sounds around you. Each small practice is a step toward clarity and calm.

Later in the show, we’ll speak with experts and lead a short guided meditation. We’ll share tips you can use—like setting technology-free times each day, practicing gratitude for small moments, and using breath to ground yourself when stress rises.

Living in the moment isn’t always easy. But the science, stories, and traditions behind mindfulness show that it is powerful, healing, and possible—right here, right now.

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Live in the moment—a phrase that captures the heart of mindfulness—invites us to shift focus away from regrets of the past or worries about the future and direct our full attention to what’s happening right now. According to Jon Kabat-Zinn, a scientist and pioneer of modern mindfulness, this means paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally. People who embrace this mindset often report feeling more fulfilled, less stressed, and better equipped to handle challenges as they come. Recent research, including a major study from the University of Southampton, has revealed that just ten minutes of mindfulness practice each day can reduce depression, decrease anxiety, boost overall wellbeing, and even inspire healthier lifestyle habits.

Let’s take listeners through a brief guided meditation. Begin by sitting comfortably, closing your eyes if you like. Notice the feeling of your feet on the ground, the rise and fall of your breath. If thoughts come, simply acknowledge them and return attention to your breath. This practice helps unsettle the habit of getting lost in worries or replaying regrets.

To help us dive deeper, we spoke with Dr. Sona Dimidjian from the University of Colorado Boulder, who explained how mindfulness can retrain the mind to de-center from negative thoughts, reducing the cycle of rumination often linked to anxiety and depression. Research shared by the American Psychological Association underscores that practicing mindfulness enhances emotional regulation, sharpens focus, and builds resilience against stress.

Yet, listeners, staying present isn’t always easy. In a world buzzing with notifications and news, our attention is constantly pulled in all directions. Digital overload can make it hard to focus on the present, with studies showing that technology can increase stress and fragmentation of attention. Practical tips for overcoming these challenges include: carving out tech-free moments during the day, using mindfulness apps for guided practice, and intentionally reconnecting with the five senses—notice what you see, hear, taste, smell, and touch, right now.

By bringing intentional awareness to everyday moments—whether it’s a mindful walk, a shared meal, or just the feeling of sunlight on your skin—you create pockets of calm amid the chaos. Small steps like these can make a real difference, turning “live in the moment” from a cliché into a life-changing habit.

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Welcome listeners. Today we’re exploring the phrase “Live in the moment,” a call that’s resonating louder than ever in a world racing with distraction and digital noise. To live in the moment is to practice mindfulness—the art of focusing your attention fully on the now. According to many experts, including those featured at this year’s Milken Institute Global Conference, mindfulness fosters resilience and empowers us to release stress while savoring both wins and setbacks with grace. By being present, people strengthen relationships, improve well-being, and connect with life more deeply.

Recent research from the Universities of Southampton and Bath, published in the British Journal of Health Psychology, revealed that just ten minutes of daily mindfulness can reduce depression, anxiety, and even inspire healthier lifestyle choices. Participants in this study used simple guided practices like body scans, breath awareness, and self-reflection. After only a month, they reported feeling more positive and motivated to care for themselves.

To help listeners cultivate mindfulness, let’s guide you through a short breathing meditation: Settle into your seat and soften your gaze. Take a slow, conscious breath in through your nose. As you breathe out, notice the sensation of air leaving your body. Whenever your mind drifts—a notification, a to-do list, a memory—simply return to your breath. This gentle returning is the core of mindfulness.

We also spoke with Dr. Shauna Shapiro, mindfulness researcher and TEDx speaker, who explained that mindfulness isn’t about erasing thoughts—it’s about changing your relationship with them. By approaching our inner and outer worlds with curiosity rather than judgment, we foster self-compassion and see challenges as opportunities for growth.

That said, staying present isn’t always easy. Our fast-paced routines and technology vie constantly for our attention. Mindfulness experts such as Rohan Gunatillake, creator of the Buddhify app, recommend building in tech-free micro-moments: savor your morning coffee without your phone, pause for a mindful breath before responding to an email, or set a daily reminder to step outside and notice the world with clear, curious eyes.

Whether you’re just starting out or deepening a long-time practice, remember the power of living in the moment lies in small, conscious choices. Through intentional presence, you can tame overwhelm, boost emotional health, and rediscover the simple joys found right here, right now.

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Live in the moment—three words listeners have heard a thousand times, but what do they really mean in today’s world of constant notifications, endless to-do lists, and an ever-churning news cycle? At its heart, this phrase is an invitation to practice mindfulness, the art and science of being fully present without judgment, accepting each experience right as it unfolds. On today’s episode, we explore why this ancient idea is now at the forefront of modern science and mental health.

Listeners might be surprised to learn that clinical research shows practicing mindfulness—whether through meditation, breathwork, or simple sensory awareness—brings a wide range of benefits, from better emotional regulation and reduced anxiety, to increased resilience and concentration. In a panel at the 2025 Milken Institute Global Conference, mindfulness experts such as neuroscientists, therapists, and even artists shared personal stories about finding joy and healing by tuning in to the present, no matter how chaotic life becomes. They emphasized simple, effective strategies such as grounding exercises and short daily meditations that anyone can fold into their routine.

For a practical experience, let’s try a short guided meditation: Sit comfortably, bring your attention to your breath, and simply notice each inhale and exhale. If your mind wanders, that’s okay—gently return to your breath. Even one minute of this exercise can reset your stress response, as recent research published in neuroscience journals has shown that regular mindfulness practice changes the very structure of the brain, promoting thicker regions responsible for attention and emotional control.

But staying present isn’t always easy. Technology and information overload challenge even seasoned practitioners, and mindfulness experts like Dr. Amishi Jha and Rohan Gunatillake have offered guidance on integrating awareness into ordinary activities: pausing before opening an app, or practicing mindful listening in conversations, helps cultivate genuine connection even amid distractions.

Whether you come to mindfulness seeking calm, healing, or the quiet confidence to thrive in a busy world, remember: every moment offers a fresh start. By living in the moment, listeners give themselves—and those around them—the gift of true presence.

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Live in the moment—a phrase that’s echoing across wellness podcasts, social media feeds, and conference stages in 2025—has roots in ancient mindfulness practice, but its meaning might be more urgent today than ever. Leading experts like Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche and Dr. Richard Davidson, sharing research at the MIT Mindful Brain event earlier this year, discussed how mindfulness meditation can fundamentally shift brain function, enhancing emotion regulation and mental clarity. By deliberately bringing awareness to what is happening right now, we nurture objectivity, self-control, and increased resilience, as noted by the American Psychological Association.

Listeners might notice their minds wandering, swept up by fast notifications or relentless work demands. According to new research published in the British Journal of Health Psychology, even ten minutes of daily mindfulness, easily accessible through free apps, can reduce depressive symptoms by nearly 20% and anxiety by over 12%. These small moments—a few mindful breaths between meetings, or tuning into sensation during a walk—can help listeners pause, reset, and respond more calmly to stress.

Practitioners in the Mindful Leader 2025 Meditation Practice Report admitted that distractions—whether jet skis, rambunctious pets, or unexpected family appearances—are everyday challenges. Their top barriers? Not enough time and too many interruptions. Guided practices, whether a morning meditation, a body scan, or a short grounding exercise, serve as practical tools for staying present amid chaos. Many find daily reminders or community support crucial for building a habit.

To cultivate mindfulness, start with simple steps. Pause and notice five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. Try a body scan guided meditation at the start or end of the day. Experts on the Milken Institute’s 2025 panel advised integrating mindful check-ins throughout your routine: before answering messages, during meals, or anytime you feel pulled away from the moment.

Interviews with top mindfulness speakers highlight the paradox of our hyper-connected world: technology can be both a distraction and a tool for offering guided meditations and support. Ultimately, living in the moment isn’t about escaping reality—it’s a practice of connecting deeply to it, cultivating resilience and joy, and offering ourselves a little grace, one breath at a time.

Live in the moment is a phrase listeners hear often, but its roots go deeper than pop culture mantras. It speaks directly to mindfulness, the ability to consciously pay attention to the present and experience thoughts, emotions, and sensations nonjudgmentally. Science shows that mindfulness practice leads to greater self-control, emotional balance, and mental clarity, as supported by the American Psychological Association and recent neurological research. Regular mindfulness meditation is linked to improved memory, reduced rumination, lower anxiety, and less depression—benefits increasingly confirmed in the last year by both clinical studies and personal accounts from leading experts.

Listeners, this concept isn’t just theoretical; it’s supported by the 2025 Meditation Practice Report, which finds that over half of practitioners meditate daily, seeking peace and focus amidst the distractions of a fast-paced, technology-driven world. The biggest barriers cited are not enough time and too many distractions, which tend to pull us away from the present and push us into spirals of anxiety or stress. Mindfulness experts like former Buddhist monk Sean Fargo, and keynote speakers such as Dan Harris, have shared in podcasts and events this year that cultivating awareness transforms how we relate to ourselves and others.

To help listeners bring this into their lives, let’s take a few moments for a brief guided meditation. Close your eyes if safe to do so, and notice the sensation of your breath. Let your attention rest gently on each inhale and exhale. When your mind drifts, simply acknowledge the thought and return to your breath. This practice, as taught by instructors on podcasts and workshops this year, offers a simple anchor to the present moment.

Mindfulness experts interviewed on shows this summer, including Dr. Judd Brewer and Sharon Salzberg, advise listeners to experiment with small changes: turning off notifications during meals, scheduling a mindful walk, or practicing gratitude before bed. Staying present is challenging for everyone, but with intention and support, mindfulness can shift our focus from autopilot to awareness and help us live truly in the moment, no matter how busy life becomes.

Listeners, today we’re diving into the phrase “Live in the moment,” a mantra often echoed but rarely understood in its depth. Living in the moment means bringing our full awareness to what’s happening right now, tuning in to our senses, and putting aside distractions and relentless thoughts about the past or future. Rather than chasing every notification or succumbing to worry, we notice the coolness of a breeze, the texture of a meal, or the sound of someone’s laughter, and we actually allow ourselves to experience it fully, free from inner judgment, as highlighted by Declutter The Mind.

This is the heart of mindfulness—a state of being present that has been practiced for centuries but is supported by science now more than ever. According to the American Psychological Association, regular mindfulness practice bolsters our self-control, mental clarity, and emotional resilience. Stress and overthinking become less powerful, and attention naturally improves. Recent research from the Universities of Southampton and Bath, published in August 2024, found that practicing mindfulness for just ten minutes a day with a simple app resulted in reduced depression and anxiety, and better overall wellbeing—even for those who had never tried mindfulness before.

Listeners, staying present is increasingly difficult in our fast-paced, technology-driven world. We’re pulled by endless to-do lists and informed by social media feeds that never sleep. But as Mindful.org points out, when we operate on autopilot, life passes by in a blur, often leaving us feeling unfulfilled and disconnected. To combat this, experts recommend simple grounding practices. Pause to pay close attention to your five senses—notice what you see, hear, taste, touch, or smell in a given moment. Even short guided meditations, like focusing on your breath or doing a three-minute body scan, can anchor you to the present.

We spoke recently with mindfulness experts who emphasize that mindfulness is not about emptying the mind, but about learning to watch thoughts float by like clouds, without getting swept away. It’s normal to drift into memories or worries; the skill lies in returning compassionately, again and again, to right now. Cultivating this habit can be life-changing—not because it fixes every problem, but because it gives us stronger, steadier ground to meet whatever comes.

As we sign off, take a moment—right now—to notice your breathing, relax your body, and let the phrase “Live in the moment” become not just a saying, but a practice in your daily life.

Welcome, listeners. Today, let’s explore the phrase, “Live in the moment.” In a world where our attention is stretched across notifications, busy schedules, and constant digital noise, living in the moment, or practicing mindfulness, has emerged as more than just a trendy saying—it’s a scientifically backed approach to enhancing mental and emotional well-being. According to the American Psychological Association, mindfulness, which is the core of living in the present, supports benefits such as improved self-control, emotional regulation, reduced rumination, and increased mental clarity. Studies have shown mindfulness can lower symptoms of depression and anxiety and even alter how the brain processes emotion.

Modern mindfulness champions like Dan Harris, who brought mindfulness into the mainstream after experiencing a live on-air panic attack, remind us that even high-achieving professionals can find solace and strength in learning to focus on the now. Events and workshops featuring experts like Harris or Dr. Kabat-Zinn, the creator of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program, are now integral in workplaces and schools, targeting not just stress reduction but also creativity and resilience.

Listeners, you may wonder how to practically start living in the moment. Guided meditation is a fantastic entry point. If you’re in a safe place, try focusing your attention on your breath: inhale deeply, notice the sensation in your body, and gently let go of wandering thoughts, simply returning awareness to your breath. Do this for just a couple of minutes, and over time, you’ll nurture a sense of calm and presence.

Interviewing mindfulness experts often reveals a universal challenge—staying present in such a fast-paced, technology-driven world is hard. The distractions are endless, but the solution doesn’t have to be extreme. Frances Saadeh, a mindfulness teacher at Brown University, noted that even skeptical newcomers to mindfulness experience real benefits after just a few weeks of practice, feeling less scattered and more emotionally balanced.

The challenge is real, but the path is accessible. Integrate small, mindful pauses in your day: savor your morning coffee, step back from your phone, or take a walk outdoors with full attention. As Dr. Paula Robertson recently shared on The Now Morning Show, setting intentions for mindful living can invoke positive change not only for yourself but for those around you. With practice, “Live in the moment” becomes less a slogan and more a transformative way to navigate modern life.

Live in the moment—three simple words that have become the cornerstone of mindfulness, a practice celebrated worldwide for its profound impact on mental and emotional well-being. Mindfulness means tuning into the present, letting go of regrets about the past and worries about the future. It’s not just a trend but is increasingly backed by science and embraced by people trying to thrive in our fast-paced, technology-driven world.

Recently, Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn—the pioneer behind Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction—addressed how living in the moment can build resilience and support health, echoing findings from research at Washington University in St. Louis that show mindfulness techniques help calm anxiety and sharpen focus. Resh Gupta of their Mindfulness Science and Practice research cluster describes how simply paying close attention to the present moment can ease anxiety, a sentiment echoed by millions who practice daily meditation.

A 2025 Meditation Practice Report reveals that over half of practitioners meditate every day, most in the morning, citing "not enough time" and "too many distractions" as chief barriers. Listeners, we live in a world where endless notifications and digital demands threaten our attention spans—yet more than ever, people yearn for peace by cultivating mindfulness. Experts like Dr. Paula Robertson suggest setting intentional daily practices instead of rigid resolutions, letting self-compassion replace judgment.

The mental health benefits are clear. According to the American Psychological Association, mindfulness boosts emotional regulation, self-control, and mental clarity. Studies indicate lower rates of anxiety and depression, better working memory, and even strengthened immune function. Neuroscientific findings show these practices can reshape our brains, enhancing attentional skills and cognitive flexibility.

Guided meditations offer a simple entry. Start by sitting quietly for just a few minutes, focusing on your breath. When a thought arises, notice it without judgment and gently return your attention to the breath. For many experts, this daily pause can be transformative.

The challenge of staying present is real. Multitasking and digital distractions test even seasoned practitioners. Building mindfulness into everyday life—while doing dishes, walking, or commuting—makes it achievable. Seek out community support or digital reminders if you’re struggling, and remember that mindfulness isn’t a goal but a continual, compassionate return to the present.

Listeners, living in the moment is more than a phrase—it’s an invitation to reclaim your attention, nourish your emotional health, and rediscover peace right now.