I see mindfulness (the skill set we cultivate through meditation) as a way of being and a way of meeting the world. At best, it provides not only deep wisdom, but also increased emotional intelligence, authenticity, empathy, and kindness. This requires practices of different kinds brought together to suit one's individual challenges and goals.
I would be lying if I said that meditation would end unpleasant emotions or physical pain. It won't. What I have seen is that meditation fundamentally eases our relationship with internal experiences—emotional and physical, pleasant and unpleasant. The more we are willing to allow and pay attention to what’s happening inside, the more we reclaim the ability to choose how we respond outside. As I've learned to be at peace with a wider variety of feelings, I've become clearer about my needs and more direct in expressing them to others. I have expanded my capacity to explore my career and personal interests. I've cultivated a growing sense of safety, humor, and kindness about humanity.
As I mentioned, a mindfulness meditation practice takes some effort and discipline. That said, here are a few things you don't need: You don't need a clear, still mind. You don't need to stop your thoughts. You don't need to sit still for more than 10 minutes or so, a few times a week (I couldn't either, when I first started). And you don't need to buy into any religious dogma. Meditation works in ordinary minds. Ordinary minds are distracted, restless, and sometimes unkind. That's how my mind was when I started meditating, and sometimes, it feels like day one all over again!
If my approach to practice resonates with you, I invite you to take an important step forward. Sign up for the free, 7-Day Meditation Challenge on the right side of this page. Each morning for the next week, you’ll receive a 10 minute guided meditation in your inbox, coupled with some basic background information and suggestions about how to apply that day’s practice to your life. You'll also receive a free mentoring session with me—an opportunity to ask any questions you have, and to customize your meditation practice to your specific challenges and goals.
I look forward to meeting you!
