October Insights: Never Give Up

Meditation, like life, isn’t always easy. Some days, it feels effortless and serene. Other days, it’s a challenge to sit still for even a few moments. It’s the same whether you are new to meditating or have been practicing for years. Everyone faces obstacles and difficult times. Distractions, busy minds, worry and impatience can all arise, but these are not signs to quit. These are opportunities to grow. This is a time for perseverance!

Perseverance matters and here’s why:

Growth happens in the struggles. Overcoming mental chatter, restlessness, or worry builds resilience and cultivates inner peace. Try to remember you managed to get through difficult times in the past and will do that again.

Self-love and compassion. During tough times it is very important to be kind to yourself. Self criticism, doubt and uncertainty often bubble to the surface. Remember meditation, like life, is a journey, not a destination. Acknowledge your successes and know that each time you sit in silence, you are strengthening your practice and inner landscape of tranquility.

Long term results are real. Meditating rewires your brain, but this takes patience, perseverance and it doesn’t happen overnight. In fact, there will be times when you question yourself because you feel like nothing has changed. This is normal. Keep meditating, even when it’s difficult. Sit in silence for a set time even if meditating isn’t coming naturally. Doing this creates lasting change in your ability to handle stress and life’s obstacles to be present and connect with who you are a spirit first.

Tips to Keep Going

1. Start Small
   If you’re feeling overwhelmed, return to the basics. Even 5 minutes of mindful breathing can make a difference. Set a timer if that helps.
2. Be Consistent
   Showing up every day, even for a short session, is more important than the length of your meditation.
3. Find a Community
   Meditating with others, whether in person or virtually, can provide support and motivation to stay on the path. In some way you are saying not only saying yes to yourself, but to others on a similar path. This is a spirit to spirit hello.

Using a Mantra

Mantras can be very helpful. They create a vibration that aligns with your intention. If you have a mantra reconnect with using it. If you are new, you can use a single word such as “ohm”, “trust”, “love” or whatever feel right for you. Take your mantra with you into your practice this month and onward. Quietly repeat your mantra aloud or in your mind while sitting in your meditation.

You can also use your mantra anytime during the day. Whenever frustration arises, repeat it silently and let it remind you that your devotion is worth it. Remember, meditation is about the journey. Embrace the ups and downs, and never give up on the peace waiting within you.

Integrating Life

If there is something in your life path that you are ready to give up on, then pause to make room for spirit first. Meditating brings clarity to the decisions you are making to understand yourself as a peaceful spirit with a body, mind, emotions and soul. You will either find yourself at peace in completing something or discover a drive that motivates you forward. Or both.

“I am patient with myself, and I trust in my growth.”

Light, laughter and love, Regina

You may also be interested in reading “Clearing Your Path”