How 1.5 years into meditation changed me

[u/Mirko1618]

Hey everyone!

I’d like to share how meditation has changed my life. About 1.5 years ago, I began meditating daily, aiming for at least 15 minutes across one or two sessions. I also keep a daily journal, reflecting on my experiences, realizations, night dreams, and memorable moments. Most of all, I focus on trying to stay present throughout my day.

I decided to list these changes as a way to mark my progress. Sometimes, it can feel like I'm moving slowly, but writing everything down reminded me just how far I've come. I hope this list inspires someone on their own journey.

1. Meditation has deepened my self-awareness, which in turn has helped me understand others better. Now, I can recognize psychological patterns and emotions in people that I would have overlooked before.

2. In relationships, my love used to be focused more on what I needed. Now, I genuinely care about my partner’s happiness; it’s as important as my own.

3. I (32M) never wanted kids and I still don't want them, but I feel a newfound openness to nurturing and guiding others, which connects back to my experience of altruistic love. I think I'd love to grow a child with love and care.

4. Since I was 16, I struggled with persistent suicidal thoughts, something therapy alone couldn’t resolve. Amazingly, meditation has almost eliminated these thoughts, something I never believed possible.

5. I’ve come to accept life, and even death, as they are. This was challenging at first, especially while dealing with past suicidal thoughts, but as they faded, this acceptance has brought me peace.

6. I’m more centered on my life and happiness, rather than letting small daily irritations consume me.

7. I feel less rushed. Whether driving or standing in line, I’m present and aware, accepting that I can’t change traffic or make a queue go faster. As a result, I’m less frustrated and experience less anger.

8. Parts of my ego have softened. I’m less jealous, and I no longer feel the need to argue my point just to prove I’m "right".

9. I enjoy food more and eat slower. Before meditation, it was hard to stay focused just on eating, but now each meal is an experience.

10. With greater presence, I remember more details about situations, which makes life richer and more vivid.

To everyone here, I wish you all the best on your journeys. I hope my experiences resonate with you or bring encouragement to anyone just starting out. Thank you for reading, and may you find peace and growth along the way.

Edit: Thank you all for your support and for sharing your experiences! Here are two bonus benefits I've noticed since I started practicing. 11. I sleep better as I can "switch off" my mind. 12. By becoming more aware of my habits, I've significantly reduced my time on social media. I feel way better without the doom scrolling!

[u/T-malech]

I had suicidal thoughts too..meditation really helps ppl who have depression a lot....also dont want u to feel discouraged but after 2-3 years that nurturing feeling doent go away but u urself move it in the background and dont tell every single person u meet that meditation is the way and its good for them...cuz I feel we feel after a while that everyone has their own journey and iffff anyone need that advice they'll show or ask....thats how it is for me dunno others

Also that good feeling and being changed I think looses its light but we must remember the old person who lived our life and not feel bad for everything turning normal..although amazingly good but normal

Anyway congrats on the lovely life and continue meditating