When I first met Gabby Bernstein back in April, I had no idea my life would be forever changed – for the better. As a freelance journalist who thrives off of the energy of the hustle and bustle of NYC, I've found the time and interest to begin following a spiritual path. Through meditation, Hatha yoga and workshops I'm more present and centered than ever before. And this is only the beginning.
Years ago I read The Secret by Rhonda Byrne and began practicing the law of attraction – if you think it and believe it, it will come – and it has. Little did I know, that this was the first step in my spiritual journey. When living The Secret, you are taught to retrain your thoughts of negativity and weakness (I'm so broke.) to positive, empowering ones (The check's in the mail.). The positivity you project through your thoughts starts to become your reality. Today, I credit The Secret for much of my success in business.
Then, I met Gabby Bernstein. At a press event for Philosophy, Gabby began talking about her life as a spiritual teacher and educating us on practical ways to meditate in today's world, and I immediately wanted more. One example of a practice she gave was about taking a "mental shower," in which you practice a breathing exercise during your morning shower to set the tone for your day. (Breathe in for five seconds, hold for five seconds, release for five seconds. Repeat.) I went on to read all of her books, attend her workshops and now, practice meditation at the Integral Yoga Institute in NYC. The same place, she learned to meditate.
"Our mind is like a drunken monkey stung by a scorpion," Jyothi, my meditation teacher explained.
The breathing, chanting and vibration of meditation allows for a togetherness with complete strangers who I have zero attachment to. I'm addicted. I feel alive and present when I'm at the IYI and find myself craving the next time I can go back. While I'm still trying to dedicate myself to meditating twice a day at home, the group meditation really works for me.
Now, not only am I practicing The Secret, but I've enhanced my life with Gabby's spiritual practices as well – to try to always be in the light by trying to bring forth my highest energy and elevate my state of joy. Through forgiveness and willingness, I'm trying to vibrate at a frequency of positivity and hoping to spread the love in order to make a radical impact on others. With this shift in energy, I am at peace, allowing myself to be present and see the world through eyes of love.
Through my mind and body, I've started to find peace in the city that never sleeps. Interested? Then start reading The Secret and then read Gabby Bernstein's books. The practices learned lead to living an optimal lifestyle. And if you think you don't have time to read or try meditation, then ask yourself (in Gabby's words), "Do you have time to feel like shit?"
