Living in the Moment

Shelly Goldberg of Hellertown, Pa., learned to take one thing at a time, reducing her stress because of a Mindfulness class

Raising four children, operating her own store for more than 20 years and volunteering as a librarian at a special needs school, Shelly Goldberg of Hellertown, Pa.,thought it was normal to do 10 things at once. But since experiencing Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, she’s learned to focus on one task at a time and let go of her stresses.

The owner of Shelly’s Personalized Gifts in Hellertown used to be on “automatic pilot.” “When I came to the store, I’d turn on the radio and computer, make phone calls and coffee – all while waiting on customers. “I still do those things, but I’m also able to connect with my customers and give them my undivided attention,” Goldberg says.

Her journey with Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction began three years ago when an interest in meditation prompted her to sign up for a course. Through “body scanning,” she learned to relax her body beginning with her toes and slowly moving toward her head. “It’s hard to ignore sounds and movements around you, but this trains you to bring your brain back to what you’re doing.” Recognizing that her children are growing up in a fast-paced society, Goldberg encouraged her 17-year-old son, Brandon, to take a course, too. “He may not have practiced all the meditation exercises, but he knows what it feels like to focus and relax. Someday that will be valuable to him.”

Goldberg says she experienced an unexpected lifestyle change. She appreciates even the simplicity of taking a shower. “Before when I showered, my mind was already in the car on my way to work,” she says. “Now I actually focus on shampooing my hair. I enjoy every moment and really appreciate them.”

Since taking the course, she’s added two wingback chairs to her store, welcoming customers to sit down and relieve their stresses. “The same 24 hours are going to pass whether you react impulsively or really live in the moment. I’d rather be in the moment.”

This page last updated 10/28/08 08:17 AM