I’ve been meditating since my early forties, but like many, I struggled with it. I was inconsistent in my practice, feeling like it failed me when I needed it the most. And I constantly questioned myself. Was I doing it right? Was it having any effect?
Years later, I decided to try again; to really commit to incorporating it into my life. I took baby steps, meditating just five minutes a day. I signed up for classes with different teachers, exploring it from philosophical, spiritual, and secular perspectives. I attended meditation workshops and retreats. I also read books and discussed it with friends, experimenting with different forms and techniques.
The more open and curious I became about meditation, particularly mindfulness, the more my practice blossomed. Yes, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing – they call it practice for a reason! – but I’ve learned what works for me. I noticed subtle changes; positive changes that impacted my life. And I began to love it.
From there, I started to contemplate bigger questions, like why did I feel calmer, happier, and more focused in certain situations versus others? How could I feel that way all the time? After a lot of reflection, the answer came to me – presence. The more present I was; the more I let go of expectations and just enjoyed being in the moment, living my life mindfully versus taking it for granted, the more I changed for the better. Thus, Presence in Practice.
