The struggles with depression
For many years, I struggled with feelings of inadequacy and despair. As a shy and sensitive empath, my self-esteem was low, and I carried deep-seated fears stemming from traumatic experiences in my childhood and early adulthood. These challenges manifested in an eating disorder and alcohol dependency, creating a cloud of negativity and helplessness, leaving me feeling trapped without hope in sight.
In my search for relief, I turned to traditional coping methods counselling, antidepressants, and a handful of self-help books. While they offered temporary relief, they didn’t provide the profound healing I desperately needed. I felt an intuitive pull toward a different approach one that would enable me to connect more deeply with my inner self.
The struggle with depression and mental health challenges can feel incredibly isolating impacting one’s wellbeing. It didn’t help that I tried to hide my turmoil and true feelings. While bottling up my emotions felt easier, I longed to break free from this cycle. I realized that I needed to confront my feelings rather than bury or repress them, and I wanted to reach out for help but didn’t know how.
Discovering meditation and my first step towards healing
A work colleague led me to a healer who suggested I try meditation for my healing. I began by listening to nature sounds, which helped me relax and ease my emotional turmoil. This simple practice provided a much-needed escape, allowing me to drift away from my worries and release some of my stress.
I also joined group meditation classes. My mind would race with thoughts, and I struggled to focus, often feeling like I was failing because I couldn’t “get it” the way others seemed to. However, as I continued to practice, meditation gradually transformed into a sanctuary for healing me. Guided meditations were particularly beneficial, steering my mind toward positive and constructive spaces. Over time, I learned to embrace more silence and stillness, slowly uncovering moments of peace amid the chaos.
Healing through mindfulness and meditation
As I went deeper into meditation, I began to acknowledge my feelings without becoming overwhelmed. I discovered the deeper ‘root causes’ of my turmoil. I learned that I could shift my thoughts and view them from new perspectives. This realization was liberating, transforming my sense of powerlessness into empowerment.
Adopting a mindful approach encouraged me to observe my thoughts and emotions with curiosity rather than fear. I gained a deeper understanding of myself and learned to let go of negative patterns. By treating myself with more kindness and compassion, I opened the door to a truly empowering path of healing and mental and emotional wellbeing.
As my meditation practice deepened, I opened a channel to connect with spirit. This connection became a lifeline, providing insights and guidance that transcended my daily worries. I learned to set intentions for my meditation sessions, asking for clarity, healing, and support. I also began to channel and download healing symbols, that became integral to my practice.
Through this journey, I developed a structured approach to healing that incorporated visualization, affirmations, symbols, and energy work. I created healing ‘meditation journeys’ designed to shift deeper patterns and blockages within me. I also visualized light filling my body, washing away negativity as I embraced healing energy. Meditation not only facilitated my self-healing but also revealed my soul’s purpose: to help others to heal and to navigate their struggles with mental health, emotional, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.
The transformation
Through consistent meditation and the healing system I subsequently developed, I underwent a profound transformation. My depression began to lift, and I gained practical tools to manage my negative thinking. I became more aware of my triggers situations or thoughts that could send me spiraling and learned to respond with more conscious openness rather than react impulsively. This newfound self-awareness empowered me to establish healthier boundaries and prioritize my mental and emotional wellbeing.
Each day became an opportunity for growth, allowing me to embrace life and open my heart and mind to a more meaningful existence filled with purpose, personal development, and connection.
Pursuing my calling
As I healed, I began sharing my experiences with others, realizing that my journey through depression and meditation could offer guidance to those facing similar challenges. I started leading meditation and healing workshops, sharing the techniques and tools I had found beneficial.
Witnessing others find solace and strength through meditation and healing deepened my commitment to service and clarified my purpose – as a teacher, healer, and mentor. It brings me immense joy to create spaces for individuals to explore their own healing journeys, and seeing their transformations has been incredibly rewarding.
Helping others heal
Today, I am dedicated to helping others navigate their healing journeys through one-on-one and group sessions centered on healing, mindfulness, and meditation. My goal is to create a safe environment where individuals can explore their emotions, cultivate self-love, and connect with their true selves. This approach is essential for promoting mental health and wellbeing.
My work fosters community and connection, recognizing that healing is not a solitary journey; it thrives in an atmosphere of understanding and support. I encourage participants in my group sessions to share their stories, uplift one another, and cultivate a culture of empathy, encouragement, and love all of which are vital for mental health and wellbeing
Meditation has not only helped me overcome depression and negative thinking but has also guided me toward my purpose: helping others heal. It has taught me that within each of us lies the potential for transformation. By embracing stillness and mindfulness, we can empower ourselves and reclaim our lives.
I am grateful for the challenges I faced, as they led me to discover the healing power of meditation and the joy of supporting others on their journey towards mental health and wellbeing. If you find yourself struggling, I encourage you to explore meditation it may open the door to your own path of healing and purpose. Embrace the journey, knowing that you are not alone and that peace is possible.
Photo Credits:
First image: Vaselena
Second image: Poike
Michelle Harris
Michelle Harris, founder of Michelle Harris International, is a two-time bestselling author and a recipient of multiple awards, including Best Healer, Best Healing Studio, Global Women of Influence 2024, and Hong Kong Influential Women 2024. With over 25 years of experience, she is a pioneer in healing and empowerment, having developed the Draco Dragon Healing Symbols System to enhance health and well-being. Her mission is to elevate collective consciousness and empower individuals and groups. Through her deeply impactful work and other initiatives—such as Empowerment Mentorships, The Empowerment School for kids and teens, and women’s retreats—she has mentored thousands in Hong Kong and globally, guiding them toward transformative healing, connection, and fulfillment.
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