The Past,Present and Stillness

The past is what we learn from. It gives meaning, understanding and context to the present, and informs the way forward. Our lives in this moment are the product of our experiences (our pasts).

Despite how important the past is, the speed of advances (especially technology) are causing us to let go of the past so we can grab ahold of what’s coming. The result is a liminal state (confusion, dissatisfaction and disorientation) in and about the present.

If you’ve ever stood in a room trying to remember why you were there, you’ve experienced how unnerving it is to be uncoupled from the past memory of why you were there. Psychologists call it the “doorway effect”. It illustrates perfectly when the past no longer holds us in the present.

In the doorway effect it is believed that walking through open doors resets or blocks memory to make room for the creation of a new episode, event or experience. The reason for being in the room (the anchor to that present moment) is forgotten and replaced by the anticipation of what could be.

The pace of change and our future orientation are powerful forces that pull us onward and push away the past leaving us unanchored from the present.

It’s being in the present that gives us the best chance to feel, emote and sense (be in our body’s felt experience). It’s when we are in our felt experience that we are better able to learn from its wisdom and sensory genius. In other words we're positioned for the best outcomes.

Through Stillness Practice we can be present and in position for what’s best.

Eric