I am saying this with total authenticity, meditation has changed my life.
I always wanted to be a meditator, after all isn’t that one of the things that “they” say that you should do? However, every time I tried I would get frustrated with not being able to clear my brain, stop the thoughts and reach enlightenment. Can you believe that!? I actually thought there was a state of bliss that I was supposed to experience with a simple breath and closing of my eyes.
After many years of trying, many books read, classes taken and apps used, I thought that meditation was never going to be for me. Then one day I needed to sit with my thoughts, by myself. It started with a comfortable chair in my living room, and I’ll never forget that day. I didn’t turn my brain off, rather I listened. I just listened to the thoughts in my brain, I got quiet. The thoughts that came up that I didn’t need, I said thank you to them and let them go. The other ones, the thoughts that I needed to hear, I gave them the attention that they needed. After this time, I’m not sure how long it was, I opened my eyes and felt the sense of calm that I needed.
I’m not going to tell you that after that day I was hooked, it actually took some time build my practice. Again there was more research, more methods tried and classes taken. However what that first day gave me was a glimpse at was possible.
My mediation practice does not look the same everyday. Some days its prayer, some days its listening, some days its singing mantra, some days I use guided meditations and some days I struggle. What I have learned is that even the days that are a struggle are better than the days that I don't try at all.
Since that day in my living room I have created a space in my house that is just for me, I have filled it with beautiful things that bring me peace. I revel the time that I get to spend there, getting quiet, just me.
Yes, meditation can be quiet and stillness, but it can also be movement. Some people find this place of peace while dancing, painting, gardening, knitting, running, playing an instrument or even kneading bread. Its not about where, its not about when or how. There isn't one right way to meditate. Its about getting a glimpse or being in the state of peace, feeling completely content and peaceful about your life at that moment. Literally at that moment, not yesterday, not tomorrow, not even 10 minutes into the future, but right then.
Sure, there are specific types of mediation, sure there are traditional methods but don't let yourself get caught up in that. Its called a meditation practice because its not something that can be mastered, but rather something that you foster and nurture throughout your life.
I have come a long way in this journey. I have learned a lot and I am passionate about sharing the benefits of having a regular practice.
If you are interested in learning more about meditation, I do teach a learn to mediate workshop, which will be available in the new year. If in the meantime you would like more information, feel free to reach out here, I am happy to answer any questions.
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