Studies show that we spend close to half of our waking hours unconsciously running in autopilot mode. Autopilot mode is when we are lost in our thoughts and narratives. We get stuck in a loop of problem solving, ruminating, worrying, thinking and planning that can leave us feeling unhappy and anxious.
Driving a vehicle is a perfect example of this – how many times have you arrived at your destination not recalling much at all about the details of how you got there?
Noticing when we are in autopilot mode and returning to present moment is a powerful habit to explore.
One of the benefits of mindfulness is the ability to slow down and lower the volume of our inner dialog for long enough to wake up and notice stuff. When we anchor to our breath, we can slow down and reconnect with our bodies and the infinite intelligence that is the source of all creation. That might sound a bit ‘woo woo’ and a few years ago I would agree, but not anymore.
When we are fully aware and present, we can ask deep profound questions such as who am I? What do I want? What is my purpose? Creativity and ideas flow in this space. We notice gut feelings that guide us on the right path that are ignored when we are lost in our narratives.
It’s euphoric feeling to be so fully present and self-aware that you can observe your thoughts from a higher perspective and clearly notice what programs are running and which of those need to be rewired, upgraded or deleted.