Fireflies

It takes 7-8 seconds of leaning into wonder and awe to have a similar effect as 15 minutes of mindfulness.

Don’t believe me? Step outside on a summer night, as it nears dusk, and find a spot to get comfortable.

And watch.

Slowly, bit by bit, your yard will come alive with fireflies. Their bodies, lighting up, seemingly irregularly, bring a glow to your yard. While one individual may be so small, the group will come together to create an illuminating pulse.

Perhaps walk through your yard, all the better if done barefoot, and cup your hands to grab one. Hold it in the bowl of your hands and watch as they light up in the darkness of your grasp. Open your hands up, and watch as it flies away. More often than not, I find the firefly stays close by me a minute, continuing its pulsing glow, as if saying hello to me before it flies off to join the others.

All it takes is 7-8 seconds, but, if you allow yourself, much more time may pass as you sit in awe of these tiny, magical creatures.

Enjoy them, watch them. And when you find time, tune into yourself. You’ll likely find calm, peace, quiet, tranquility. And all it took was some sitting outside and opening your eyes to the wonder of nature.