My personal path to developing a stable meditation practice has been anything but consistent.  And at the same time, over the past year since I’ve been practicing regularly according to the method I learned to teach, I have had the good fortune to experience consistently increasing benefits for myself, ones which have also had a positive impact on others in my life.  Here are five benefits that rise to the top of my list of reasons I keep coming back to practice meditation, a list which whenever I come back to reinforces my dedication to and gratitude for the practice!

  1. I’m getting to know myself better.
    I’m becoming more familiar with the nature of my own mind, which has helped me better understand and appreciate myself.
  2. I’m more present and connected.
    Even in this age of digital distraction, I am strengthening ability to be present with people and situations in my life to the level I consciously choose in each moment.
  3. I’m becoming more accepting and thereby suffering less.
    As I become more aware and accepting of my habitual thought patterns, and enhancing my ability to let them go, I’m holding on to negative emotions for a shorter time and suffering less.
  4. I’m becoming less anxious.
    I am someone who has struggled with anxiety all of my life, and I’m finding a significant level of relief through the regular practice of sitting in meditation.
  5. I’m part of a strong and supportive community.
    I’ve been fortunate to have become part of a community of meditators who provide invaluable support and with whom I’ve developed lasting friendships.

So increased self-knowledge, presence, connection, acceptance, peace and community are key reasons why I personally meditate.  Now let’s hear from you!  If you meditate, why, what keeps you coming back?

And if you’re interested in trying out meditation for yourself or strengthening your existing practice, check out our Offerings page for ways to do so!