Meditation has been a part of my life since 2018, transforming the way I navigate life’s ups and downs. Each morning, as the world around me slowly awakens, I sit quietly in meditation, immersing myself in the stillness and magic of the early hours. It’s a practice that brings me immense peace, clarity, and gratitude—a gift I cherish every day.
Discovering Meditation
My journey with meditation began unexpectedly during a yoga class in 2013 at Pearson College. At the end of each session, my yoga teacher guided us through a brief meditation. These moments were simple yet profound, leaving me with a sense of tranquility and connection I had never experienced before.
Though I meditated sporadically in the years that followed, it wasn’t until the winter of 2018 that meditation became a part of my life. That season was particularly challenging, marked by a painful emotional breakup. I found myself overwhelmed by heartache and uncertainty. Seeking solace, I turned to books on mindfulness and meditation. Slowly, I began to practice more regularly.
As I embraced meditation, I noticed a shift within myself. The heavy emotions that had once consumed me started to lift. I felt lighter, more grounded, and more present. I began to see life through a new lens—one filled with appreciation and wholeness. This transformation solidified my commitment to meditation, a practice that has since guided me through life’s inevitable highs and lows.
The Magic of Early Mornings
There’s something extraordinary about the early morning hours. It’s a time when the world feels still and serene, with only the occasional birdsong breaking the silence. This is my favorite time to meditate. As the darkness gradually gives way to the light, I feel a profound sense of connection to the world around me.
I often practice mindfulness meditation following the teachings of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. His approach to mindfulness, rooted in the practice of anapanasati (mindfulness of breathing), resonates deeply with me. The simplicity of focusing on each breath brings me back to the present moment, allowing me to cultivate a sense of peace and clarity.
The Teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh
Thich Nhat Hanh, known as the “father of mindfulness,” was a Vietnamese Thiền Buddhist monk, poet, and peace activist. His teachings have inspired countless individuals around the world to live more mindfully and compassionately.
Throughout his life, Thich Nhat Hanh emphasized the importance of deep listening, nonviolence, and interconnectedness. His pioneering concept of “engaged Buddhism” encourages practitioners to bring mindfulness into their daily lives and use it as a tool for fostering peace and understanding.
In 2005, after 39 years in exile, he returned to Vietnam to visit his “root temple,” Từ Hiếu Temple in Huế. This temple holds special significance for me. When I moved back to Vietnam in the summer of 2023, one of my first visits was to Từ Hiếu Temple. Each visit fills me with a profound sense of calm and connection.
I still vividly remember meditating under a tree beside the lotus pond at the temple. The serene atmosphere, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the sight of lotus flowers in full bloom created an unforgettable experience. When I meditate each morning, I often imagine myself back in that tranquil setting, feeling the same sense of wholeness and peace.
The Transformative Power of Meditation
Meditation has not only helped me navigate my own emotional challenges but also enabled me to support others on their journeys. I’ve had the privilege of guiding friends and loved ones through mindfulness practices, helping them find solace and resilience during difficult times.
The beauty of meditation lies in its simplicity. It requires nothing but your presence and willingness to sit with yourself. With each breath, you cultivate a deeper awareness of the present moment—a practice that fosters inner peace and resilience.
Through meditation, I’ve learned to appreciate life’s impermanence and embrace its uncertainties with grace. Life is full of joys and sorrows, but meditation has taught me to face them all with an open heart and a grounded spirit.
Creating a Daily Practice
Starting your day with meditation is a gift you can give yourself. It doesn’t require a lot of time—just a few minutes of stillness and focused breathing can make a world of difference.
Here’s how I approach my daily meditation:
- Find a Quiet Space: Choose a place where you feel comfortable and won’t be disturbed. For me, it’s often a cozy spot by the window, where I can watch the morning light gently filter through.
- Focus on Your Breath: Begin by observing your breath. Notice the gentle rise and fall of your chest, the coolness of the air as it enters your nostrils, and the warmth as it leaves.
- Set an Intention: Before you start, set a positive intention for your practice. It could be as simple as cultivating gratitude or finding inner calm.
- Be Present: If your mind starts to wander, gently bring your focus back to your breath. Remember, meditation is not about stopping your thoughts but observing them without judgment.
- End with Gratitude: Conclude your practice by expressing gratitude for the moment of stillness and connection you’ve created.
Embracing a Mindful Life
Meditation is a way of life. By incorporating mindfulness into your everyday activities—whether it’s savoring a cup of tea, taking a walk in nature, or simply being present with loved ones—you can cultivate a deeper sense of appreciation and peace.
For me, the journey of meditation has been one of transformation and growth. It has helped me navigate life’s challenges with grace and embrace its beauty with gratitude. As I sit in meditation each morning, I am reminded of the power of stillness and the profound connection we share with the world around us.
Whether you’re new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, I invite you to embrace the practice with an open heart. Start small, be consistent, and allow the peace of meditation to guide you towards a more mindful and fulfilling life.
Life’s journey is ever-changing, but with meditation, we can navigate its twists and turns with a sense of wholeness and love.