a year of stillness – how meditation changed my perspective

Meditation has been part of my life for about a year now. Before that, I was always very active and outgoing — someone who loved being at the center of things, leading conversations, and bringing energy into the room. It wasn’t a problem; it was simply who I was.

But a couple of years ago, something shifted. I started to feel like I was too much — even for myself. I felt a growing need to turn inward, slow down, and find a quieter connection with myself. Instead of looking outward for validation, I began to explore what it meant to find that within.

When I first started meditating, it didn’t come naturally. I often felt frustrated, trying too hard to “do it right” instead of simply being present.

That changed when I moved to Malta and joined a 6-week Mindfulness course. By the end, I felt more grounded, aware, and connected to myself. Meditation became part of my daily life — not because I had to, but because it truly helped.

It gave me something I didn’t even know I needed: space. 

Space to hear myself clearly, to feel in control of my thoughts and choices, to set boundaries, and to feel at home in my own skin.

Life isn’t perfect — I still face stress and challenges — but now I have simple tools that help me respond instead of just react. Most of all, I’ve learned I don’t need to be happy all the time. Peace and joy come and go, and that’s okay.

Today, I focus on balance, honesty, and showing up for myself and others with care. And it all begins with something as simple as one mindful breath.

Then another. And another.

Just being here. In this moment. Exactly as I am.