Last January, I experimented with leading a weekly ladies-only meditation group. I was inspired to give it a try because so many women shared a desire to try meditating and because I know first-hand how much community supports a meditation practice. My experiment was intended to last four weeks but the response was so positive, our little growing community is now entering its seventh month. And it’s really, really cool. Here’s why we love it.
Firstly, we are an international community of women in midlife (and sometimes a few of our older daughters ). There are ladies from across the US, Israel, South Africa, Canada, and Europe. I love this! There’s no cost, no RSVP necessary and no need to explain if it’s not for you. You come if and when it works for you.
Secondly, our time together is short and sweet (30 minutes) and suitable for all levels. I introduce a concept, followed by a brief guided meditation. We then “sit” in silence for a bit (the real meat of meditation) and end with optional questions and/or sharing about the meditation experience. It goes really fast, and the time (8:30-9am pt) fits our international multi time zone community.
Lastly and perhaps most importantly, we support each other to do something that we all know is invaluable yet few (myself included) consistently do alone. It’s the same concept as group exercise classes, writing clubs or book clubs. Most of us are more likely to stick with something if we have community support, accountability and people we look forward to seeing.
So, whether or not you are brand new to meditation or a seasoned sitter, consider joining us on a Thursday morning. We meet most every Thursday from 8:30-9:00am PT. And, if you are thinking to yourself right now that “I can’t meditate…. My mind won’t stop…… I wish I could but I simply can’t,” then definitely come. If you can breathe, you can meditate.