Life’s greatest pleasures often hide in plain sight, waiting for us to simply pause and notice. As inspirational meditation teacher Tara Brach beautifully reminds us, “The way to develop the habit of savoring is to pause when something is beautiful and good and catches our attention…then totally immerse in the experience of savoring it.” Savoring the World is the sixth chapter of the book, Midlife, New Life: Living Consciously in Midlife and Beyond.
As we navigate midlife transitions, we face important questions about where to live and where to visit? Or, put another way, where to be and where to go? These choices become especially significant as we move beyond full-time working and gain more freedom to choose our surroundings more consciously. Consider what matters most: proximity to family, access to nature, spiritual communities, or recreational opportunities. Whether it’s swimming by the beach or hiking in the mountains, strive to align your environment with your values and desires.
Travel offers both outer adventures and inner journeys. From spiritual expeditions to solo explorations, each journey enriches our lives differently. But remember, starting earlier makes travel more accessible as physical challenges increase with age.
Finding Joy in the Everyday
Perhaps the most profound practice is savoring the world every day. Notice the sound of rain, the glow in a child’s eyes, or a stranger’s kindness. Marvel at sunrises, sunsets, and star-filled skies. Watch turtle hatchlings as they make their journey from their nest to the sea. These moments don’t require grand plans or distant destinations; they simply require us to pay attention and to notice what is going on around us. The invitation is simple: pause, notice, and immerse yourself fully in life’s beautiful moments. They’re happening all around us, waiting to be savored.
Watch this video to learn more about Savoring the World:
