“Your responsibility is to be at peace with yourself.”

It sounds pretty simple doesn’t it? But we all know it certainly isn’t easy. However, as we deepen our meditation practice and become more aware of our emotions, and needs (both met and unmet), and as we authentically begin to believe and accept that we are enough just as we are (with the aspiration to grow and become even better of course!) the idea of being at peace with ourselves becomes easier.

One of the benefits of meditation is that the more we practice the more we begin to clear away the mental clutter and constant chatter in our heads. As that clutter clears we begin to have more space, more quiet. In those quiet moments are where the seeds of internal peace begin to grow.

As  you move through your day today, pause now and then to gauge your level of internal peace. If you’re feeling distressed or agitated see if dropping your gaze, taking a few deep breaths, and detaching from your thoughts helps. Remind yourself that you have a choice about how you feel in the moment. You may not be able to change the current circumstances but you have complete control over how you react to those circumstances. Continue to consciously move toward being at peace.

Enjoy your meditation today, whether it is 16 minutes or longer. And, remember that continuing with daily practice has significant impact on your health in ways you may be consciously aware of as well in ways you may not be able to sense as easily.