Being present and aware of oneself is a profound practice, often tied to mindfulness and self-awareness. This state of consciousness involves paying attention to the current moment, observing thoughts and feelings without judgment, and cultivating an awareness that helps navigate life’s challenges with clarity. The beauty of presence lies in the ability to fully experience the richness of life without being weighed down by the past or overwhelmed by future uncertainties. It allows individuals to connect deeply with themselves and others, fostering emotional intelligence and resilience.
Letting your mind settle into the present can be quite a task especially if you still carry yesterday’s regrets and tomorrow’s anxiety of the unknown. For one, I had been running from myself for so long that I got lost in the noise of daily life. Work, relationships, expectations and more had all formed a blur that kept me distracted from what was real; this moment. It wasn’t some grand revelation, no bolt of lightning that changed everything. It was more like the slow unfolding of a truth that had always been there waiting. The truth that life wasn’t something to rush through but to be savored. I began to notice everything- the rustle of leaves, the rhythmic inhale and exhale of my breath. Each sensation pulled me deeper into awareness, revealing a depth of connection I had forgotten existed.
In the context of an educational institution like Rifkins College, the strength it bears from being conscious of its students is immense. When a college is conscious of its student body, it not only meets academic needs but also nurtures their personal growth, emotional well-being, and long-term development. A college that cultivates awareness of its students’ individual challenges, aspirations, and potential creates an environment where learning thrives beyond textbooks and lectures.
Rifkins College, by prioritizing such awareness, demonstrates several strengths such as:
Individualized Attention: The college can provide tailored academic support and mentorship that aligns with the unique goals and circumstances of each student.
Holistic Development: By being conscious of emotional and social well-being, the college fosters not just academic success, but well-rounded personal growth.
Increased Engagement: Students who feel seen and understood are more likely to engage actively with their studies, community, and future careers.
Supportive Environment: Awareness of students’ needs allows the institution to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where diversity of thought and experience is celebrated.
Rifkins College in Mombasa embraces the same philosophy of presence, encouraging us not just to learn but to experience, to connect the dots between knowledge and self-awareness. In that space, I discovered a community that was as much about growing intellectually as it was about growing as a person- balanced, intentional and deeply aware. This top college institute fosters a learning environment rooted in mindfulness and self-awareness, encouraging students to grow both academically and personally. This holistic approach allows students engage fully with their education, developing resilience and emotional intelligence alongside intellectual skills.