***The wandering brain finds happiness

Those trusty researchers at Harvard University -- and elsewhere -- have been busily exploring what makes us happy. It is called the neurobiology of happiness and speaks to what lights up our brains. The researchers are also examining the plasticity of our brains – how we can re-patte our neurotransmitters for happier outcomes. Positive psychologists, Daniel T. Gilbert and Matthew A. Killingsworth, both from Harvard, have concluded that “a wandering mind is not a happy mind.” Yes, psychological research does demonstrate that flair for the obvious, but, that said, we now have scientific proof and baseline platform for today’s discussion. We humans have minds that are in over-drive. Our minds are forever projecting forward to explore a possibility or vaulting backwards to review a past event. We seldom stay in the present moment which all good mystics and mindfulness teachers will tell you is the place to hang out. This – the present moment – is where we get the most bang for our buck, life-wise. Still, it is difficult for us to shut our monkey brains down. We hop from thought to thought with nary a breath in between. As most of us know, meditation has been proven an effective antidote for the non-stop mind and stressed-out life. It works. For some, meditation is not their thing. Good news, however, awaits. Those wizards at Harvard have also found that quiet time increases happiness. Yes, quiet time. I am told that when night falls, a boat switches energetically into what is called “low lights.” In other words, everything is shut down to preserve power. I love that phrase. Perhaps you might see yourself as a boat with low lights skimming inky waters under a starry sky. Everything is safe and secure, you are allowing yourself some time to refresh and recharge. And for a bit more reflection, here is an excerpt from my book, Balancing Act: Reflections, Meditations, and Coping Strategies for Today’s Fast-Paced Whirl. Quiet time Have you ever considered creating a daily window for quiet time? Perhaps taking thirty minutes of unadulterated unscheduled time to sit quietly? Nothing fancy, simply 30 precious minutes with the telephone unplugged, the computer turned off and no one permitted to disturb you. This is time for you to unburden yourself. There is nothing to carry -- no bags, books, briefcases, messages, worries, responsibilities or chores. Everything is left outside the 30-minute circle but you. In fact, you might envision drawing an imaginary circle around this dedicated space. It will provide you with boundaries -- an energetic safety zone in which to release your cares and worries. By creating a temporary sanctuary in which you can refresh, recharge and replenish yourself, you are free to be alone with your thoughts, stare into space, take a bath, meditate or simply rest your eyes. Being quiet is a healing endeavor; it soothes jangled nerves, preempts the bombardment of sensory stimulation and allows the body to become still. It calms the energy field and provides restorative tranquility to the mind-body. Being quiet is an avenue for both balance and peace. Being quiet also connects you with yourself. It gives you the opportunity to tune in to yourself and listen to what is bubbling beneath the surface; it gives you the space to sort out jumbled emotions or gnarled thoughts. It becomes a place where you can process and digest the knotted and the tangled. Being quiet allows you to clear out the inte al clutter and to approach the remainder of the day anew and with a refreshed attitude. By regularly taking a mere 30 minutes per day for quiet time, you can create an oasis amidst the hurriedness of your days. Consider giving yourself permission to take a full 30 minutes of quiet. Sanctuary time calls you. “How beautiful it is to do nothing and then rest afterwards.” Spanish proverb