Chapter 1: The Journey Begins

Reflecting on my meditation practice over the years, I realize it has been a tumultuous journey. My intentions have always been positive, but we all know where good intentions can lead. Despite attending the annual ten-day retreat at the meditation center, I often found it challenging to sustain my practice once I returned home.

This morning, as I meditated, it struck me that the real work begins right after leaving the center. After taking a significant break, I reignited my meditation journey in early 2014, coinciding with my decision to stop drinking and smoking on New Year’s Day. I had hoped to establish a routine of meditating for one hour each morning and evening. While that goal hasn't fully materialized, I focus on maintaining a consistent morning practice, which has been a sporadic but persistent endeavor.

Returning to the meditation center after years away was not an easy choice. I had vowed not to return until I had gone an entire year without alcohol and cigarettes. It felt like a daunting promise, but ultimately, it was the right one. My first retreat back was in 2015, and I committed to returning annually until the pandemic disrupted that rhythm. After a long hiatus, I made my way back in April 2023 and repeated the experience in April 2024. I’ve decided that this month will be my go-to for retreats moving forward, hoping to enjoy peaceful early morning walks in nature.

Although I resumed my meditation practice in 2014 and returned to the center in 2015, I have always faced difficulties in maintaining my routine post-retreat. The last couple of years, especially 2023 and 2024, have been particularly inconsistent. Upon returning home in late April, I struggled to find the motivation to sit and meditate, often viewing it more as a chore than a calming practice. This struggle persisted through May, and my desired routine felt more like a distant dream than a reality.

Frustration began to set in, and I wrestled with feelings of disappointment and failure, even contemplating giving up. Then, at the end of May, I resolved to leave the past behind and focus on a fresh start. As June arrived, I committed to a single hour of practice each morning without overcommitting myself.

Days 1 to 12 of June were smooth sailing; I didn’t miss a single day. However, on Day 13, I found myself making excuses and ultimately skipped my session. The disappointment weighed heavily on me the following morning, but as I glanced at my calendar filled with successful sessions, I reminded myself that Day 13 was just a blip. Day 14 offered a new opportunity to fulfill my commitment to myself, and I took it.

Now, it’s Day 27, and I realized that today marks the 14th consecutive day of meditation since my Day 13 lapse. Tomorrow will mark half a month of consistent practice. But, as I remind myself, there’s no need to rush; it’s all about taking it one day at a time.

As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. If you’ve faced challenges in maintaining a regular meditation practice, what strategies have worked for you?

This video, "Don't Get Ahead of Yourself," by Lizzie Berchie, inspires mindfulness and encourages us to stay present in our journeys.

Section 1.1: The Importance of Daily Practice

Establishing a daily meditation routine is crucial for mental clarity and emotional well-being. It helps anchor us amidst life's chaos.

Subsection 1.1.1: Overcoming Obstacles

Incorporating meditation into our daily lives can be challenging, but persistence is key.

Chapter 2: Reflecting on Progress

As we navigate our meditation journeys, it is essential to reflect on our progress and recognize the importance of each small victory.

Jamie Lawson’s "Ahead of Myself" lyric video resonates with the theme of mindfulness and staying present, reminding us not to rush the journey.