My journey with meditation began 40 years ago. I learned it in elementary school–hey, it was the ’70s!–as part of a program to help gifted children deal with stress. Little did I know how well meditation would come to serve me over the years.

I practiced off and on throughout my youth, experimenting with breathing techniques and object-focus work. But it was in college during my first yoga class when my experience of meditation began to truly deepen. This connecting of body and mind was a profound revelation for me.

Later, meditation, combined with weekly therapy, became central to my recovery from childhood abuse and trauma. Now daily meditation and yoga have become invaluable practices, not only to heal, but to experience life more fully.

I believe that meditation can help all of us live more centered and productive lives, whether to heal from trauma, to cope with stress, or quietly explore our rich, inner landscapes.