In my prior experiences, I have struggled to spend time in meditation. I did not completely understand what it was and whether I was doing it “correctly”. In general, I am unable to concentrate well enough to sit still for an extended time, whether I am at school in a classroom or simply reading a book.

That changed after attending Noell Clark’s Vinyasa & Meditation class. At the very end of class, just before savasana, she cued the meditation, and it was a very memorable experience for me. She suggested that we visualize a tree and observe its growth from a distance before we begin. She said that this would help us better clear our heads. In addition, this demonstrated to me how our meditation practice may help us grow over time, just like trees and nature help us.

Previously, when I meditated, I’d often find myself opening my eyes and looking around the room. I also had trouble emptying my thoughts, which was another challenge. It was more often than not, that I thought to myself, “Oh, today is a good day to meditate since I do not have much going on.” I quickly learned this is not the mindset I should have going into practice. When I’d try to clear my head, I would concentrate so hard on clearing my mind, that it could not be clear from my habit of opening my eyes during practice. 

However, trying Noell’s suggestion of picturing a tree growing really helped me clear my head. Once the tree had grown, my mind would be completely blank. I felt more energized and grounded than I ever had before. I had never felt this way after a class. Finally, I could see all the benefits of meditating. I felt so much more aware of my five senses for that day and the rest of that week. Also, knowing that I was able to overcome the challenges I previously faced helped me do it again. I was able to concentrate, clear my head, and continuously meditate for a good amount of time. I am so glad I went to Noell’s class that day. I feel that learning this method of meditating has greatly improved my practice in more ways than one.