07 Jan Meditation has helped me be more aware of my emotions and thoughts - Bernice

Meet Bernice Soriano, our Mindfulness Hero of the week. From having no control over her emotions and thoughts to being aware of them that has helped her be calmer and steadier, she has had a wonderful journey with mindfulness and meditation. She also shared some really valuable tips for beginners that will be helpful for many.

Why did you start meditating?

Bernice: I started meditating as I felt that I had no control over my emotions and thoughts - that they were all over the place. I also had a hard time distinguishing which emotions and thoughts were helpful, and also realized that they were sometimes causing me to be anxious and overworked even if there was no reason. I also thought that I needed a little “me” time with no other distractions.

How has meditation helped you in becoming a better person?

Bernice: Meditation has helped me to be more aware of my emotions and thoughts, and has allowed me to ground myself. Because of this, I have become calmer and steadier- which impacts the people I work with and my family. I have lessened my anxiety, and have also become more understanding and communicative. Also, I have become more in tune with what I want and need, and I use the meditation techniques to prepare myself for sleep especially on days when I feel that I’m overtired or prepping for a big day the next day.

What made you stick to Aware?

Bernice: I like how Aware is not too “chatty” as a meditation app. I’ve tried the others, and I couldn’t seem to get what I needed out of them. Aware gave me the foundation work that I needed in order to make the habit stick. It’s a no-nonsense meditation app, and has great timing and tutorials.

What has been your life-hack to make meditation a habit? Share some tips for beginners.

Bernice: For the first few days, it’s important to set aside a specific time for it. The best time that worked for me is after I make my bed in the morning- I don’t have to respond to anything urgent for work, and I can fully devote that time for meditation. It’s also important that you won’t be disturbed, especially as you are still starting the habit. Later on once it becomes a part of your routine you can start moving it to other times of the day. Also don’t be disheartened if you feel that you can’t “concentrate” or your mind wanders off- meditation is not a time to be judging yourself. Allow yourself to return back to the breath and continue on.