365

Yes, 365. Three hundred sixty-five.

The number of consecutive days of meditation.

I can’t believe I did it! I’m so excited!

A year ago, June 1, 2025, Insight Timer hosted the Mid-year Reset Challenge and I accepted. It fit well with my idea that any day is a good day to start again. To start anew. I’d been meditating on and off for many years but I didn’t really stick to it for more than a couple of months and I thought that some guidance would be helpful. Little did I realize the impact it would have on me.

I finished the challenge and it felt wonderful so I continued. After a few months I took pride in the fact that I had established a great meditation habit but what surprised me was how much I needed it and counted on it every single day. Even more so was how much it changed the way I saw things, reacted to situations, taught me to act in a way that aligned with my values, and showed me how to be the person I want to be.

Was every meditation fantastic? No. In fact there were some that ticked me off and I was more irritated after I was done than when I started. (Someone once said that it must mean it’s working. Crikey!) But most of them have been very meaningful and soothing.

Did I spend 20-30 minutes a day meditating? Nope. Some days I only had about 5 minutes to myself but it was mine. I took whatever I could get. Other times I’d get lost in the silence and 45 minutes would go by in a flash.

Did I ever fall asleep during meditation? Yep. A few times. It was usually when I didn’t have (make) time during the day and bedtime was upon me and I panicked that I hadn’t meditated yet. I found a sleep meditation (both guided and with music) and drifted off after the lesson.

Was my mind calm and quiet during every meditation? Oh heck no! There were days when I couldn’t get my mind to shut up for two seconds! I felt like my thoughts ricocheted off the inside of my skull like a pinball machine on a caffeine and sugar high. Other days, though, my brain settled in as if it had been wrapped in a warm, comfy blanket and was able to relax and simply be.

I experienced all kinds of things throughout the past year of meditation and I’m grateful for every one of them. The highs, the lows, the frustration, the peace, the emotions, the joy, the guidance, and the way it has changed me for the better. And I don’t ever want to stop. 🙂

Thank you, Elizabeth Gilbert, for putting the idea in my head to meditate.

A huge thank you goes to Sarah McLean and her amazing book that literally changed my life.

And, finally, a gigantic thank you to Insight Timer for keeping me motivated, engaged, and fascinated.

I hope that you give meditation (in whatever form) a try and see what it can do for you.

Namaste.

#meditateforlife

#insighttimer

#sarahmclean

#elizabethgilbert

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