Category Archives: Profiles

Connectedness to One Another

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I have been interested in meditation for many years but have always struggled with concerns about not doing it “right”, lacking commitment to practice, and choosing a direction. There are so many varieties of meditation. I would read and practice an array of styles of meditation but never felt like I was getting any traction in developing continuity or maturity in my practice.

I heard about the Cenla Meditation Group and started attending regularly. There are specific factors that I encountered in this group that have helped to grow my understanding and practice. Those factors are implemented every time that we meet together and include the following: teaching and guidance, meditation practice together as a group, discussion, and fostering a sense of loving kindness toward ourselves, one another, and the world.

Meeting weekly helps to develop a sense of accountability and connectedness to one another. Meditating with others does not erase the challenges of practice, but it has changed the way that I relate to meditation.

– Regina Irvin

Learning to Live in the Moment

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Michelle ChevalierI 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.