I had read about the healthful benefits of meditation for several years, but it always seemed so foreign to me. I also didn’t know of any place locally to learn more. I have always preferred human connection to internet chat rooms, so I never sought out support or information online.

About a year ago I saw a Facebook ad about CENLA Meditation Group and was pleasantly surprised to find there was an active group in my proverbial “backyard.” I really had no idea what to expect, but I had a desire to try and balance my life, so I decided to see what it was all about.

Everyone was very kind and welcoming, and as I took a seat on the back cushions I felt a nervous kind of excitement to be trying something new. I found the relaxed environment very comfortable and, as someone who had never “sat” before, I was happy to hear it was okay to fidget, lie down, or shift positions if needed. Some visitors even sat in chairs if they were physically unable to get on the floor.

What I have gained from coming each month is a supportive community, free of judgment, whose desire is to learn more about themselves and help others. I am forever grateful for the new friends and practices I have learned that help me live in the moment & enjoy my life to the fullest.

– Michelle Chevallier

Michelle is a social worker (MSW, LCSW) with a local hospice, wife, and mother of a sweet little boy. They live in Pineville, LA.