Meditation is an ancient practice that trains the mind to observe and regulate its own activity. It has been used for centuries by Hindu and Buddhist practitioners to cultivate attention, insight, and spirituality (1,2). More recently, meditation has been adopted and adapted by Western science and medicine as a way to enhance well-being, reduce stress, and improve health (1). Why Meditate? Is it worth the hype? There is a growing body of evidence that supports the benefits of meditation for various physical and mental conditions, including (3-6): Alzheimer’s Disease. Anxiety. Cardiovascular... Read More

I was already up the mountain when it hit. Out of nowhere, it came rushing in—dark, gray, ominous clouds. At first, I was hopeful that it would all blow over quickly so that I might enjoy my rendezvous longer. It was noon, and based on my earlier report, the storm wouldn’t approach until 3 pm. But alas, what was now boiling up in the sky was here to stay, and at the first flash of white, I knew I had to get down the mountain to safety. No sense in remaining at what was close to being the highest point. No point in being stagnant. It was either stay or leave, so I retrieved my pack and descended... Read More