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Famous faces, quiet spaces: discovering the power of meditation

“Step one is to want to do it”

Richard Gere, a long-time advocate for mindfulness and meditation, reminds us that the first step towards incorporating meditation into our lives is simply the desire to start. It's about motivation at its core. Wanting to meditate, to find that space of calm and clarity within ourselves, is the key that unlocks the door to a myriad of benefits. It's a reminder that the journey of meditation begins with a single, yet profound, step: the desire to do it.

Oprah Winfrey

“People who used to have migraines, don’t. People are sleeping better. People have better relationships. People interact with other people better. It’s been fantastic.”

Oprah views meditation as a transformative practice with significant positive impacts on well-being and interpersonal relationships within her company. She notes that employees who once suffered from migraines no longer do, highlighting improvements in physical health, sleep quality, and personal interactions. The overall effect of integrating meditation into the company culture, according to Oprah, has been fantastic, enhancing both personal well-being and workplace dynamics.

“I meditate in the morning. It sets me up for the rest of the day. […] I have a calmness about whatever comes my way.”

Kobe Bryant, the late basketball legend, shared how morning meditation was an integral part of his daily routine, setting the tone for his day. He spoke of meditation as a source of calmness and readiness, no matter what the day threw his way. This practice of finding peace in the morning helped him navigate the pressures and challenges with grace, illustrating how meditation can serve as a foundation for both mental and emotional resilience.

Phil Jackson

“Mindfulness expands your ability to focus”

Phil Jackson, considered by many as the most successful coach in NBA history and known as the "Zen Master" in the basketball world, highlighted how mindfulness expands our ability to focus and perform. His emphasis on meditation and mindfulness as tools for personal growth and enhanced performance resonates deeply with Daily 10’s mission. Jackson's approach underscores the idea that being present and mindful can elevate our capabilities in all areas of life.

Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche

“Meditation is very easy. […] Actually, we don't need to stop thinking. We just need to connect with awareness.”

Rinpoche, Stefan’s teacher, brings a refreshing perspective to meditation, emphasising its ease and the importance of connecting with our awareness. He assures us that meditation doesn't require stopping our thoughts but rather involves connecting more deeply with our awareness. This aligns with Daily 10's approach to meditation as an accessible, natural practice that enhances self-awareness and inner peace.

Pico Iyer

“So, in an age of acceleration, nothing can be more exhilarating than going slow. And in an age of distraction, nothing is so luxurious as paying attention. And in an age of constant movement, nothing is so urgent as sitting still.”

Author Pico Iyer, known as one of the world's greatest travel essayists, talks about the urgency of sitting still in an age of constant movement, highlighting the power of stillness to transform our lives. This reflection echoes Daily 10's belief in the significance of meditation to address emotional challenges, offering a sanctuary of peace in the midst of our chaotic lives. Iyer's insights remind us of the value in pausing, breathing, and finding stillness, even if just for a moment.

Dan Harris

“Love is a skill that you can train”

Dan Harris, ABC news journalist and a vocal advocate for meditation, introduces the concept of loving-kindness meditation as a skill that can be trained and developed. His perspective supports the idea that meditation can cultivate positive emotions and transform our approach to love and kindness. This notion fits perfectly with Daily 10's philosophy that meditation is not just about achieving personal tranquility but also about fostering a deeper connection to others and the world around us.

Through the wisdom of these figures, we see the diverse yet unified theme of meditation's impact on personal growth, emotional resilience, and the journey towards a happier, more mindful life. Their experiences and insights serve as a beacon for all of us exploring the path of meditation, reinforcing the idea that this ancient practice holds contemporary relevance and immense value for everyone.

Concluding thoughts

Isn’t it amazing how meditation can be such a game-changer? Hearing from folks like Richard Gere, Kobe Bryant, and others really opens up a whole new perspective on it, doesn’t it? They’ve shared how starting with just the spark of wanting to meditate, to feeling calmer and more focused, all the way to embracing kindness and stillness, can truly transform our lives. And that’s exactly what we’re all about here at Daily 10 — helping you find that spark and turn it into a glowing ember of happiness and self-awareness.

These stories from some pretty inspiring individuals are just tiny glimpses into the world of meditation, showing us that no matter who you are or what you do, there’s a spot for you in meditation. And the list of folks who’ve found joy and peace in meditation is way longer than we could ever fit here.

So, let these stories be a little nudge for you, whether you’re just curious about meditation or looking for ways to spice up your practice. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all in meditation; it’s all about exploring and finding what feels right for you. And with Daily 10 by your side, diving into meditation and making it a part of your day is as easy and fun as chatting with a friend. Let’s explore this wonderful world of meditation together, finding a little more happiness and peace along the way.

Stay present,

Ellina