RV Life: Lessons in Mindfulness 

We’ve been living full time in our Minnie Winnie RV for almost six months now.  Kathy and I have loved every minute of this new chapter in our lives. An unexpected blessing, for me, has been an opportunity to increase my practice of mindfulness. 

mind·ful·ness

ˈmīn(d)f(ə)lnəs/

noun

1. 1.

   the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.

   “their mindfulness of the wider cinematic tradition”

2. 2.

   a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.

I started on my journey to increase my mindfulness when I began to read the works of Thich Nhat Hanh.  Mindfulness is really difficult for me.  I’m a big multi-tasker and have a mind that is often racing onto the next chore, idea or imagined difficulty.  I could clearly see the value of staying in the moment but it’s day to day practice eludes me.

So, how has RV living helped with this? 

Well, first of all Winnie is a truly tiny home.

I have had to learn to move more slowly and carefully.  

Because space is limited, I’ve become more thoughtful in my shopping.

For me, slowing down and really considering what I am doing are big steps in growing more mindful. 

But, I think the biggest asset for my increased mindfulness is in how I now think about and use water.  I used to be way more casual about my water useage. Long showers, overly full tubs and triple washed hair was my norm.  In an RV you become way more aware of the fact that water is a finite resource. Water tanks have to be filled and emptied, drinking water has to be purchased and carried home. Water has always been finite, it’s my awareness that changed. I began to think about how many women, the world over, don’t have the luxury of turning on a tap (or filling an RV tank). I began to use our daily water getting routines as opportunities to practice working meditation and mindfulness. I started to be really grateful for the blessing of fresh, clean water…it should not be a privilege but it is.

I am still really far from the always mindful person I would love to be.  But for today, I am happy with my slow progress and this moment, in which I can share with you. Wishing you all a day of beauty, mindfulness and joyful moments.