Blog Post #4: The Gift of Meditation- A Life-Changing Journey
In 2009, at the age of 30, I stumbled upon one of the most extraordinary gifts I could have ever given myself—Transcendental Meditation (TM). This profound practice, acquired at no cost to me thanks to a grant from the David Lynch Foundation to the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD), has been nothing short of life-altering. As I reflect on my journey, I realize just how essential this tool has become as I now embrace my 44th year of existence.
The Serendipitous Discovery
The path to TM wasn't one I actively sought; rather, it serendipitously found its way into my life. SFUSD, where I was working at the time, received a grant from the David Lynch Foundation to provide TM training to its staff. Little did I know that this opportunity would become a transformative force in my life.
The Profound Impact
TM has been my daily anchor for nearly a decade and a half now. It's a practice that has seen me through the highs and lows of life's roller coaster. From becoming a parent to navigating career shifts and even weathering the storm of a global pandemic, TM has been my steadfast companion. So cheesy and also so true!
1. Emotional Equilibrium: Transcendental Meditation (TM) has bestowed upon me one of its most profound gifts: emotional balance. It's astonishing how this seemingly simple technique has the power to calm even the most turbulent waters of the mind. When life throws unexpected curveballs my way, I instinctively turn to TM to find my center, and it unfailingly provides solace.
Moreover, TM serves as the invaluable tool I use to recharge my energy levels. When I'm feeling depleted, much like a parched sponge at the end of a scorching day, TM comes to my rescue. Without fail, it refills my energy cup, revitalizing me each and every time. This dependable practice has become something I eagerly anticipate and rely on daily.
2. Enhanced Resilience: TM has equipped me with an enhanced ability to bounce back from life's challenges. It's like having an innerspring of resilience that helps me tackle obstacles with a renewed sense of strength and clarity. Closing my eyes and letting myself drift into meditation, provides such a huge sense of security. Not only do I feel calmer, but always more able to handle whatever is coming towards me.
3. Parenting Peacefully: Parenting is a beautiful and demanding journey. TM has helped me approach it with greater patience, understanding, and presence. I would highly recommend starting a meditation practice to new parents as this has undoubtedly been one of my best tools to rely on when needing more inner strength, rest, tranquility, hope and ability to manage the multitude of responsibilities involved in parenting.
4. Job Changes and Adaptation: Career shifts can indeed be a source of significant stress. Since 2019, I've experienced five distinct career shifts. Throughout this journey, Transcendental Meditation (TM) has remained my steadfast anchor, providing me with the adaptability and unwavering focus needed to navigate these transitions gracefully.
As I've ventured into the expansive and often challenging world of entrepreneurship, I find myself particularly thankful for the practice of TM. It has become an essential tool that continues to serve me well in this new and exciting phase of my career.
5. Pandemic Companion: Amidst the overwhelming uncertainty that gripped the world during the pandemic, Transcendental Meditation (TM) emerged as my daily sanctuary. It provided me with not only stability and grounding but also the essential mental clarity required to confront each day with a renewed sense of purpose.
In fact, I found myself recommitting wholeheartedly to my practice, diligently engaging in twice-daily meditations since the spring of 2020. This steadfast commitment has been a lifeline, helping me navigate the challenges and uncertainties of those turbulent times with resilience and grace.
Conclusion
As I celebrate 15 years of embracing the gift of Transcendental Meditation, I'm filled with gratitude for that unexpected opportunity in 2009. This practice has not only enhanced my life but also enriched the lives of those around me.
If there's one piece of wisdom I'd like to impart, it's this: consider exploring the world of meditation. Whether it's TM or another practice, the benefits are immeasurable. In the chaos of life, it's a gift you can give yourself—one that keeps on giving!
Today, at 44, I continue to be a passionate advocate for TM as well as meditation in general, sharing my experiences with anyone willing to listen 😜 I believe that sometimes the most extraordinary gifts are the ones we stumble upon unexpectedly, and they have the power to shape our lives in the most beautiful ways.
