Meditation? All Day Everyday!

Feb 21, 2015 A couple of days ago, my friend told me about his meditation retreat experience in Thailand. Meditation?

Exotic, life changing and beautiful...
The perfect escape from mainstream society. The retreat entailed 12 days of specific meditation techniques repeated many times throughout the day. The experience included a strict diet plan, day/night schedule and community living rules. Much more calm and peaceful in all respects to the American lifestyle.
But, why did this not appeal to me?
Ever since I began meditating, meditation retreats sparked very little interest. My friends would tell me about their getaways, having great mindfulness experiences. Eating, walking and speaking mindfully with other like-minded individuals created their incredible journey. As an observant person, I noticed that my friends who went to the retreat, didn't continue to practice their mindfulness. Living the American dream on the fast lane, they've stopped their training to accommodate the demands of their lifestyle. So, why would anyone go to a short meditation retreat just to revert back to regular routine afterwards? Is it a vacation for people? I wanted something long-term and practical.
I've joined several group meditation sessions per week at the East Bay Meditation Center (EBMC). Attending these sessions on a regular basis had allowed more long-term exposure, which was ideal for consistent mindfulness practice. But, six months of group meditation practice had opened a new door. I wanted to extend my practice to incorporate mindfulness into my everyday routine. I was ready for the next step. I thanked EBMC for their experience and began my new journey.

Meditation? All Day Everyday!

Meditating while everyone else is meditating is easy.
Meditating while nobody else is meditating has some challenges, but it is possible.
My goal was to incorporate my mindfulness to my mind and body while in the presence of others. Being in the presences of others in their environment allowed great opportunities for practice. Whether in downtown, at work or in school, I was mindful of my thoughts and actions.
I observed all the judgements of my environment and quieted the mind. For example, if I had walked down the street and witnessed an argument, I would be mindful of my body and mind reactions. Normally, people would react negatively, but being mindful would not allow any negative judgements to sway my emotions. I would keep focused on myself and breathe. Challenge was an understatement, but I progressed every time I practiced.
Years later, I am much more calm around others and I have been seeing things differently with a light heart.

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Reinvention

I practice mindful and positive thinking on a regular basis. My constant reinvention enables me to be more open to share my story.I empower people to follow their happiness and see the world with more love in their hearts.

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