Three Changes I've Seen in Myself After Just 10 Days of Meditation

Meditation is something that has slipped in and out of my daily routine over the years, but after a recent read about the power it can have on developing focus and attention span, I decided it was time to recommit to 12 minutes of meditation per day. I'm less than a week and a half in, and I'm already noticing big changes. Here's how I've quickly seen my life improve after incorporating this simple practice.

1. I am more present in the moment.
Whether it be when laying in bed or going for a run, I've noticed a shift in my ability to be aware within the present moment. This past weekend I completed a triathlon, and I really noticed this change in how I was able to appreciate the sunrise while swimming. Normally, I'd be focused on getting into transition or how fast I was going to bike, but I instead naturally gravitated toward enjoying and appreciating the beauty in that moment.

2. I am less reactive.
You know that feeling when someone annoys you to the point that you just want to snap back or that instant rage you feel when someone cuts you off in traffic? While I can't say that's completely disappeared, I have found myself able to more easily notice my emotions and choose how I want to react before jumping into action. Previously, I would go into autopilot and say a snide remark or speed up to get even, but now I find myself more easily observing my initial emotions and choosing to release them rather than reacting.

3. I have more gratitude.
By taking time in the morning to notice what I'm feeling and acknowledge the state I'm in, it's allowed me to recenter and focus on what matters most. Some days I'll start my meditation feeling anxious or annoyed, and throughout the duration of the exercise my mood will transform to appreciation and joy for the day ahead. This has helped me let go of baggage I may be carrying and show up to my daily commitments as my best self.

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