Mindful Experiences

Remember when you were a kid looking forward to Christmas? You probably couldn’t wait for that magic day. You also likely have fond memories of Christmases past with family and friends. Anticipation and memories are clearly part of most people’s Christmas experiences.

One of my favorite concepts to teach regarding recreation programs was the notion of the “recreation experience.” It can have many dimensions but the simplest way to describe an experience is that it includes a) the anticipation, b) the activity itself, and c) the recollection of the event. Looking forward to something is an important part of any experience, as is looking back with warm memories and stories to tell. The activity itself is essential but without the first and third aspects, the experience can be diminished.

A hard part about this Covid-19 era is how it has changed my recreation experiences because of the uncertainty and lack of anticipation regarding if and when something might happen as well as fewer activities and therefore, fewer memories. I am still doing some of the things I did pre-pandemic like hiking and volunteering. For me, however, I am thinking about new ways to understand and appreciate everyday experiences.

In daily experiences, I have become more aware of mindfulness and staying in the moment. Appreciating recreation experiences mindfully is more evident to me as I have more time to reflect on what I have lost AND what I have gained.

Last week I invited several friends to share a “full moon rising stroll.” I planned what we might do, where we might go, and how I could make the experience fun. We did the stroll and had a magical hour in the twilight as it turned to darkness. I was mindful of the sights and sounds of our stroll. I have been thinking about the evening and reliving the wonders of the moon shadows and moonlight reflections on Sprague Lake ever since (see photos above). For me, it was a mindfully complete recreation experience.

To live mindfully is to live in the moment and acknowledge the value of the present. It is not about dwelling on the past or fearfully anticipating the future. To be mindful is to observe and label thoughts and feelings in an intentional manner, and that can relate to looking forward to and remembering good times.  Being aware that I am awaiting something in the future that will bring me joy is positive. Staying in the moment and trying not to worry about the past or future is helping me enjoy the simpler pleasures I now have. This time of being alone more than in the past has given me the freedom and opportunity to focus on future, current, and past blessings in my life.

As I at times lament my present lack of extensive recreation activities (e.g., travelling and trips), I have also come to enjoy simple experiences more fully. For example, I am anticipating the yummy tika masala that I am going to get for take-out this evening. And I am still reflecting on the moonlight across the frozen lake from earlier this week. As I move toward a Christmas that will be different than in the past, I am targeting how to mindfully prepare for and enjoy the Holiday in real and virtual spaces and time. I also look forward to new stories to tell based on mindful recollections.