Mindful in May Ambassador Tara Bliss

Tara Bliss is a catalyst for growth in others, but even the steadiest growth agent needs a few supports of her own – and that’s where meditation comes in. Tara and Elise sat down to talk all things mindfulness.

Elise Bialylew: What led you to meditation?

Tara Bliss: It’s funny because my answer to this might be surprising in that, I believe what led me back to meditation was actually my detour away from it. If I think back to the essence of myself as a little girl, the silent, mystical, boundless world of formlessness has always appealed to me and given me great comfort. I loved to be alone, to journal, to listen to meditation tapes and to create ritual, and as a fifteen-year-old, I even made a habit out of teaching my friends how to meditate. But as often happens to many of us, eventually I got distracted by all of life’s dangling carrots; namely: drugs and alcohol.

The emptiness that came with that ten-year detour re-activated my inner seeker, and very rapidly, my desire to know my own potential returned in a big and beautiful way. Meditation has gifted me everything I was always searching for in short-term fixes, and more.

What value has practising meditation brought to your life?

It has given me perspective, and a visceral experience of self-love and self-acceptance. It’s my portal to feel truly connected to nature, and life’s rhythms, and to my own potential. It fills me UP in every way.

How has meditation supported you in your professional life?

Without the smallest doubt, I would not feel as professionally fulfilled as I do now were it not for meditation and yoga.

It’s the absolute priority of my day and I notice that the deeper I go within my own practice and the more devoted I become, the more I open myself up to creativity, opportunities and abundance.

‘Sadhana’ is the first thing on my to-do list, every day.

What are the biggest obstacles to your practice?

I have an ego like everyone else. I have that loud voice within me that tries to sway me with mentions of ‘Stay in bed a little longer,’ or ‘you’re too busy to meditate,’ or ‘maybe later.’

I’m not sure whether that voice ever goes away, but it’s up to each of us to have the inner strength to know the benefits that come with moving through that resistance.

I’ve never risen from a meditation and thought ‘Gee, I really wish I hadn’t wasted my time doing that.’

What is a quote that most inspires you and why?

‘I am a human being. Nothing human can be alien to me’ — Terrence

This quote sends shivers down my spine and reminds me to practice compassion with mankind, to recognise our shared oneness and to perceive the light in all. In a world addicted to separation this is certainly easier said than done, but it’s a beautiful practice in and of itself.

As a Kundalini Yogi, I endeavour to live by the five Aquarian Age Sutras, and there are two in particular that mirror this Terrence quote perfectly:

Recognise that the other person is you.

And…

Understand through compassion or you will misunderstand the times.

What is a book that has opened you to new ideas and inspired your growth, why?

I’m a huge fan of Caroline Myss and all of her books. I love the way she speaks of how specifically we give away our power, and how we can call it back, and reclaim it.

The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer was pivotal at the beginning of my journey too.

And The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer is a gorgeous book about living open-heartedly.

What is one lesson that you have learned through mindfulness practice that has supported you in your life?

Nothing lasts forever, everything changes. No exceptions.

Why are you being Mindful in May?

The last twelve months have revealed to me how deeply I long to be a voice on spiritual practice. I believe part of my mission is to encourage folks to have a daily practice so that they can know their own strength, grace and potential.

I’m so grateful to be an ambassador for this cause. Not only does it allow me the platform to help raise money for Charity: Water, but it also creates incredible alignment with my dharma and mission.

Want to know more about Tara Bliss? Click here to visit her website.