As always, welcome back to our weekly space where we will go a little further into the experiences that make up our life experience. This week I would like to invite you on a contemplative journey that combines the mindful practice of being present in the moment with the vastness and nearly spiritual experience of being a part of the massive expanse of the universe. As someone who has been interested in the subject for many years, I believe this topic is one that brings together the peaceful art of being present in the moment with the wondrous cosmic beauty of the universe.

At its core, the practice of mindfulness encourages us to be grounded in the present moment and listen, breathe, and fully embody each moment as it occurs without any judgment. When we begin to broaden our view, when we compare the tranquil, internal focus of mindfulness to the immense size of the universe, something magical begins to occur. That simple act of being present becomes much greater; it becomes a key to unlock an extraordinary sense of belonging and humility.

Consider this: We are extremely minute dots on a blue planet (as Carl Sagan so eloquently referred to it) floating within an endless cosmos containing thousands of galaxies, millions of stars, and countless mysteries yet to be unraveled. The incorporation of mindfulness into our consideration of this enormous universe prompts us not only to respond to the distractions around us but to develop a feeling for our interconnectedness to all things, ranging from the cells in our bodies to the star clusters that light our nighttime sky.

The combination of mindfulness and cosmic awareness can offer us a very stable ground. It helps us realize that the worries that weigh upon us today are merely temporary waves in the ocean of time and space. As we continue to observe our thoughts, emotions, and sensations mindfully, we become aware of patterns that we might have otherwise missed. In turn, we begin to recognize that although our personal stories are precious, they are ultimately a piece of a much larger story that continues to unfold.

If you have never attempted this cosmic mindfulness before, here is a simple technique: Find a quiet area, preferably at night, and gaze at the stars. Wherever you decide to focus your attention, allow yourself to simply be there, breathing deeply and experiencing the relationship between your body and the cool light emanating from those distant suns. Experience both how small and large you feel simultaneously. Allow this paradox to remain with you; it is where mindfulness expands into wonder.

For those who would rather meditate indoors or prefer another approach to exploring cosmic mindfulness, some meditation applications and guided mindfulness practices use visualizations of the universe or include space-themed soundscapes. These can assist in broadening your experience of presence beyond daily routines and help to create a similar reverence.

In a world filled with rapid pace and distractions, combining mindfulness with the cosmic perspective provides a lovely invitation: to slow down, appreciate and find peace through our shared existence. It is a reminder that while we may be small, we are intricately connected to the vast and majestic fabric of the universe.

Thank you for joining me on this short journey between our inner tranquility and the vastness of the universe. Next week, we will examine how simple daily habits can add depth to our mindfulness practice and improve our overall well-being in surprisingly easy-to-use ways. Until then, keep looking upwards—either internally or to the stars—and know that you are never truly separate from others during your journey.