If you are like me, then after a long day of slogging at work, you wait for the moment its time to ‘punch out’ so you can flee to the comfort of your home- perhaps to that favourite cup of masala chai as you scroll mindlessly through Instagram reels.This might be one of those rare instances of the day you get to yourself completely, your ‘me-time’.After all, there are always tasks to be tackled lining up like dutiful soldiers demanding your attention – be it giving your grimy toddler a much needed bath or doing that huge pile of odorous laundry.
 
I used to think that the perfect moments of my day (morning snuggles with Achu or a cool shower after an intense workout) are when I ought to be present fully.These were moments that needed to be experienced- to make memories that were cherished.
I spent weekdays longing for the weekend and working days longing for that perfect vacation.It was as if I had decided that these were the only parts of my life that merited any relishing;as if all the dull and boring parts were an inevitable misery to be endured.
 
Leafing through ‘The Miracle of Mindfulness’ by Thich Nhat Hanh(a Vietnamese monk and peace activist),one particular technique to practice mindfulness in one’s daily life caught my eye.This master of meditation reminds us to wash the dishes for the sake of washing the dishes-not as some irksome prelude to your masala chai. Remind yourself of a simple mantra while washing your dishes-‘This is my time.I am here.’This present moment with you standing at the sink scrubbing pans and pots with a lemon-scented sponge is all you have right now.It is your life.It is sacred.Dont wish it away thinking of something that hasn’t yet been or has already been.Pay attention now.Enjoy the frothing soap tickle the back of your hands  and the hum of tap water streaming in a soothing melody.When you relish these simple sensory experiences with a great fervour,life’s colours truly become more vivid.
 
Having seen how a simple act of mindfulness helped me appreciate my life better,I now try to infuse inglorious tasks of my day with a newfound reverence.As I stand watering the withering mint leaves in our balcony,I remind myself that this is the most important thing in my life right now.And I try to be present.I do not want to miss out on this one life I’ve been given.