Back in 2012, while working as a life model in London, I discovered meditation almost by accident. Spending long hours holding still poses became more than just a physical exercise; it turned into a mental journey. I was present in my body, yet my mind would drift away, finding peace and clarity in those moments of stillness.
I often kept my eyes open, focusing on a single point until shapes and forms seemed to come alive. I imagined drawing them in my mind. Other times, I closed my eyes, letting the gentle flow of new-age music guide me. In my imagination, I soared over the chalk hills of Wiltshire and Somerset, places where I had once lived and felt deeply connected. These moments of meditation left me feeling refreshed, as if I had been reborn, ready to face the challenges of daily life.
A Magical Experience in Devon
One of my most powerful meditation experiences happened during a hiking trip with friends on a hill overlooking the sea in Devon. We paused at the top of the hill to admire the breathtaking landscape—Devon at its finest. While my friends sat down for lunch, I wandered a little apart from the group and decided to meditate.
The sun warmed my skin, a gentle wind brushed past me, and the rhythmic sound of the sea filled the air. It was a perfect harmony of nature and stillness. In that moment, I felt completely at peace with the world. It was a rare gift, especially considering it happened in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic—a time of uncertainty and isolation. I felt truly honoured to have such an experience.
Tips for Beginners
If you’re new to meditation, start small. There are excellent guided sessions available on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. Begin with short 10-minute sessions and gradually build up to an hour.
Breathing is essential: breathe in through your nose and exhale through your mouth in a steady, rhythmic pattern. Let your breath ground you and guide you into a deeper state of relaxation and awareness.
Finding Peace in Stillness
Meditation has been a constant thread weaving through the fabric of my life, quietly guiding me toward balance and beauty. It is both a sanctuary and a portal—a place where time dissolves and the boundaries between body, mind, and imagination blur.
In those moments of stillness, I have learnt that life is not something we conquer but something we surrender to. With each breath, we open ourselves to the mystery of the present, drifting between reality and dream, the seen and the unseen.
Whether I am soaring over imaginary hills or simply sitting with the soft rhythm of my breath, meditation reminds me that peace is always within reach. It’s not a distant destination but something that unfolds gently when we pause and listen.
I believe that anyone can find this stillness. No grand rituals are needed—just an open heart, a curious mind, and the courage to let go. Each breath is a step inward, and in that sacred space, we become weightless, free to explore the vast landscapes within us.
Thanks for reading
Laura Bernardeschi Nelson artworld and travels 