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Meditation: A Simple Way to Show Up Fully in Your Life
“The real meditation is how you live your life.” ~Jon Kabat-Zinn
I never saw myself as someone who would meditate. It wasn’t even on my radar until my wife suggested it while we were both working on our wellness. I chuckled. Like a lot of people, I assumed meditation meant sitting still, trying to clear my mind, whatever that even meant. It sounded impossible and, frankly, frustrating.
I grew up in the rust belt, part of the baby boomer generation, and I’ve spent my life working hard, showing up, and taking care of my own. I love hard and play hard. I enjoy a good bourbon, an occasional cigar, and being a little stupid with my friends and family. That’s always been part of my life.
That’s who I was when I started this practice, and that’s still who I am today. Meditation didn’t change me into someone different. It didn’t make me soft, overly serious, or turn me into some enlightened guru. It just made me more aware. The same things I’ve always loved, I still love. The same challenges I’ve always faced, I still face. The only difference is that now, I experience it all with a little more presence. Life didn’t change. I just stopped rushing through it.
At the time, I dealt with stress the way a lot of people do—by staying busy. If I felt overwhelmed, my instinct was to distract myself. I would work harder, scroll through my phone, watch TV, or find something to keep my mind occupied. The idea of sitting in silence with nothing but my thoughts sounded like torture.
At the same time, I couldn’t ignore the fact that I was constantly drained. Even when I wasn’t actively dealing with a problem, I carried this low-level tension everywhere I went. My mind was always racing, thinking about what needed to get done, replaying past conversations, and worrying about things that hadn’t even happened yet. It was exhausting.
So, I gave meditation a shot. Not because I believed in it but because I figured I had nothing to lose. What I learned along the way completely changed my perspective, but not all at once.
I think a lot of people expect some kind of breakthrough moment with meditation, like flipping on a light switch where suddenly everything feels calm and clear. That never happened to me. Instead, it was more like a dimmer switch—subtle, slow, and almost unnoticeable at first.
The biggest misconception I had was that meditation was about emptying the mind. That’s not the point at all. And honestly, if that was the goal, I probably would have quit on day one.
Meditation isn’t about forcing thoughts away. It’s about noticing them without getting caught up in them. It’s about observing what’s happening inside rather than constantly reacting to the outside world. Think of it like sitting on the side of a busy road, watching cars pass by. Cars are your thoughts. You don’t need to chase them or jump in. You just watch.
Once I stopped trying to clear my mind and instead focused on simply noticing my thoughts, the practice became much easier. More than that, it started to make a difference in my daily life, but not in some dramatic, life-altering way. There was no single moment where I thought, “This is it. Meditation has changed everything.” It was far more gradual than that.
I started noticing small shifts. I felt shorter bursts of calm in my day, even in stressful moments. Instead of immediately reacting when something frustrated me, I had a split second of space to breathe first. I became more present and less lost in overthinking.
I realized I wasn’t spending as much time stuck in my head, replaying past mistakes or worrying about the future. And perhaps most importantly, stress didn’t grip me the way it used to. It still crept in, but I caught it earlier and let it go faster.
That, I’ve come to understand, is what meditation really does. It doesn’t erase stress. It just helps you see it sooner so it doesn’t take over.
One of the most unexpected benefits was that I became much better at recognizing when I was running on autopilot. Before, I would get lost in thought without realizing it. I would stress about everything, scroll through my phone, or half-listen to conversations while my brain was somewhere else. Meditation helped me break that habit. I started to realize how often I was going through the motions without truly being present. That awareness alone made a difference.
At this point, meditation isn’t just something I “do.” It’s something that shows up in how I go about my day. And that, more than anything, has been the biggest shift. It’s easy to sit in a quiet room and meditate. The real challenge is remembering to breathe and stay aware in everyday moments. That’s where the practice really matters.
I’ve also realized that even when I don’t feel like meditating, that, in itself, is a form of meditation. The fact that I check in with myself, notice whether I’m avoiding something or just not in the mood, and allow myself the freedom to choose—that’s awareness. And that’s the whole point. I don’t pressure myself to meditate at a specific time every day because I know awareness isn’t confined to a cushion or a set routine. I am free to be free.
If you’re skeptical like I was, here’s what I’d recommend. Forget about clearing your mind. Trying to shut off your thoughts is like trying to stop the wind. It’s not going to happen. Instead, just notice your thoughts without getting carried away by them. You don’t have to control or judge them. Just observe.
Keep it short. You don’t need to sit for thirty minutes. Start with two to five minutes. That’s it. You wouldn’t expect to lift heavy weights on your first day at the gym, right? Meditation is the same. It’s mental muscle that gets stronger over time.
Make it easy. There’s no need to sit in a perfect cross-legged position or chant mantras unless you want to. Just sit comfortably, whether on a chair, couch, or even lying down, and focus on your breath. No need to overcomplicate it.
Expect your mind to wander. That’s normal. Meditation isn’t about having a blank mind. It’s about noticing when your attention drifts and gently bringing it back. That is the practice. Stick with it. The benefits sneak up on you. You might not notice a difference at first, but over time, you’ll realize you feel a little calmer and a little more grounded. Give it time.
Over time, I stopped thinking of meditation as something separate from the rest of my day. It became less about sitting in silence and more about paying attention. Noticing my breath when I felt unsettled. Feeling the weight of my body in my chair while working. Catching my mind when it started spiraling into stress. It all counts.
At the end of the day, I’m still the same guy. I still work hard, love hard, and enjoy a good bourbon and laugh with my friends. Meditation didn’t make me a different person. It just helped me show up for my own life in a way I never had before. And for me, that’s been enough.
What moments in your life are slipping by unnoticed? Where can you slow down, even for a breath, and truly be present? You don’t need to change who you are or chase some perfect version of mindfulness. Just notice. Just pay attention.
As Jon Kabat-Zinn reminds us, “The real meditation is how you live your life.” It’s not about sitting still or doing things a certain way. It’s about showing up—fully—for the life you already have.
So, take a deep breath, bring a little more awareness into your day, and let the rest take care of itself.
Always remember to JUST BREATHE.
About Brian Reich
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HARTA Space Celebrates Malaysia’s Timeless Traditions With “The Grace of East” Exhibition
HARTA Space presents an evocative art exhibition dubbed “The Grace of East”, inspired by HABIB’s Raya campaign. In collaboration with KL Lifestyle Art Space (KLAS), the exhibition invites visitors to step into the rich cultural landscapes of Malaysia’s East Coast, celebrating a region where tradition and storytelling have flourished for generations.
HARTA, derived from HABIB, Malaysia’s premier jeweller, stands as a platform for the revival of Malaysia’s traditions and arts. The space houses a Heritage Jewellery Museum and a contemporary Art Gallery, bringing together the country’s rich cultural legacy for a deeper understanding and appreciation. HARTA champions Malaysia’s cultural identity as the true wealth of the nation.
Read More: Mirsham Habib on HARTA’s Initiative to Celebrate Malaysian Art and Culture
Timed to coincide with HABIB’s Rantaian Kasih 2025 campaign — a tribute to the cultural icon of the Wau, Malaysia’s iconic kite — The Grace of East offers a poignant reflection on the deep-rooted heritage and unity that bind the people of Malaysia, especially during the cherished Hari Raya season. The exhibition is not merely a showcase of art; it is a cultural pilgrimage, a journey through time and an exploration of the ties that unite Malaysia’s past with its vibrant present.
At the heart of this exhibition are masterpieces by legendary Malaysian artists, including Khalil Ibrahim, Dato’ Mohd Hoessein Enas, Ismail Mat Hussin, Rahmat Ramli and Mohamed Zain Idris. Each of these artists has shaped the narrative of the East Coast, immortalising its landscapes, communities and traditions in their unique and evocative styles. From Ismail Mat Hussin’s intricate representations of the Wau to Khalil Ibrahim’s vibrant depictions of coastal life, their works transcend the canvas, offering an intimate glimpse into a region where the winds of tradition continue to inspire. Paddy Farmers by Rahmat Ramli offers a delicate portrayal of women harvesting rice, captured in fluid motion to reflect the harmony of rural life. Untitled by Dato’ Mohd Hoessein Enas is an intimate study of femininity and refinement, evoking the quiet strength of traditional womanhood. Finally, East Coast Girl by Khalil Ibrahim presents a serene portrait of a young woman, embodying the simplicity and elegance of kampung life.
The Wau itself, symbolising freedom, unity and artistry, takes centre stage in this exhibition. Its soaring form, once a traditional pastime for the people of the East Coast, now stands as a metaphor for the resilience and spirit of the region. As HABIB’s Rantaian Kasih campaign evokes, the Wau carries not just cultural significance but also speaks to the shared history and continuity of Malaysian identity.
Through a curated collection of paintings and artworks, The Grace of East not only celebrates artistic excellence but also examines the delicate balance between tradition and innovation. The works on display capture the essence of freedom, movement, and the unbroken link between heritage and the evolving artistic scene of Malaysia. For Mirsham Meer, Director of HARTA, The Grace of East is more than an exhibition. “This Raya, as we celebrate love, generosity, and tradition, we invite everyone to rediscover the timeless beauty and grace of the East Coast through the eyes of our greatest artists.”
As Malaysia’s leading art platform since 2010, KL Lifestyle Art Space (KLAS) has been at the forefront of promoting modern and contemporary Malaysian art. Through its auctions and exhibitions, KLAS serves as a space for art collectors, enthusiasts, and emerging artists, playing a crucial role in the development of the local art scene. KLAS continuously strives to elevate Malaysia’s art scene, aiming to set new standards and propel it to international recognition.
The Grace of East runs from 12th to 27th April 2025 at HARTA Space, admission is free and open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday.
For more information, visit www.hartaspace.com and follow @hartaspace on Instagram for the latest updates.
For more on the latest in culture and art reads, click here.
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When Are Taxes Due?
Haven’t done your taxes yet? You’re not alone. As of April 4, just 101 million of an estimated 140 million filers this year had submitted their 2024 income tax returns.
But time is running out. Unless you qualify for IRS relief or get an extension, most taxpayers have until Tuesday to submit their federal tax returns to the IRS.
When is Tax Day 2025?
This year, Tax Day falls on Tuesday. For most taxpayers, this is the deadline to submit all your tax documents and make a complete or partial payment if you owe the IRS.
Although Tax Day is on April 15 this year, this isn’t always the case. The deadline may be pushed to the next business day if it falls on a weekend or a holiday. For instance, last year, the federal tax deadline in Maine and Massachusetts was moved to April 17 because it fell on Patriots’ Day. In 2023, the federal Tax Day was April 18.
When are state taxes due?
Nine states (Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming) don’t collect state income tax on wages. Washington, D.C., and the 41 states that levy individual income taxes typically have the same deadline as the federal government, with a few exceptions.
For example, taxpayers in Hawaii can file by April 21, Delaware residents have until April 30 to file, and residents of Georgia and South Carolina can submit their paperwork by May 1 thanks to tax relief measures issued after Hurricane Helene.
The rules on getting an extension to file also vary by state. Some states require you to submit a separate request by the original deadline if you need extra time. Other states states automatically grant the extension if you are due a refund, if you pay part of your total tax burden, or if you already requested an extension to file your federal taxes.
When is the last day to file taxes?
For most people, the last day to file their taxes without penalties is Tuesday. You can apply for an extension if you need more time. You don’t have to explain why, but you must submit the request to the IRS on or before the deadline. If approved, your new tax return deadline will be Oct. 15 — a six-month extension to file your tax return without penalties.
There are three ways to get this extension: through IRS Free File, by filing Form 4868 via regular mail, or by sending a partial or complete online payment of your estimated income tax and checking a box indicating that you’re filing for an extension.
Note that filing an extension doesn’t change your payment due date — it just gives you more time to complete the relevant paperwork. You still have to submit any tax balance or estimated payment you owe by Tuesday to avoid late payment penalties.
The most convenient way to pay is likely by making an electronic payment (through direct deposit, digital wallet, credit or debit card, or by phone). You can also pay via regular mail by sending a check or money order with a copy of your tax return.
Some people might not need to request an extension to file at all. The IRS may automatically grant an additional two months to taxpayers and military personnel living abroad to submit their tax returns (they’re still required to pay on time).
People impacted by a natural disaster are also granted additional time to file and pay their taxes. This year, taxpayers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina — plus folks in parts of Alaska, New Mexico, Tennessee and Virginia — have until May 1 to file. California residents who live in Los Angeles County don’t have to file until Oct. 15. Nov. 3 is the tax deadline for taxpayers in all Kentucky as well as parts of West Virginia.
What happens if you miss the tax deadline?
Though the IRS will continue to accept electronically filed returns after Tuesday, missing the tax deadline can come at a price. If you fail to pay on time, the penalty is 0.5% of what you owe for each month you don’t pay, up to 25%. The failure-to-file penalty is harsher, charging 5% of your due tax amount for each month that goes by, up to the same maximum.
The IRS may remove some or reduce these penalties if you can show reasonable cause for the delay, such as a natural disaster or a death or illness in the family.
The IRS also might not charge any penalties for filing late if you overpaid for the 2024 tax year. That said, you should still file as soon as possible to avoid losing any unclaimed refunds. The IRS grants you three years from the due date to claim a tax refund. After three years, the money becomes federal government property, and you can’t get it back.
What if you can’t pay your taxes?
People who can’t pay their taxes in full by should still file their returns and pay what they can. Even a partial payment will help minimize any penalties, and the IRS may allow you to pay any remaining balance over time or possibly even settle for less than the full amount owed through its Offer in Compromise program.
The IRS offers two online repayment plan options, depending on how much you owe in taxes, penalties and interest. Taxpayers who owe less than $100,000 may qualify for a four-month payment plan, while people who owe less than $50,000 can repay their debt over a longer payment period.
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Tax Changes 2025: What’s New With Taxes and the IRS?
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Must-See Highlights from Salone del Mobile 2025
The industry’s most prestigious furniture brands flaunted their wares to an adoring crowd of design enthusiasts, architects and interior designers who thronged the cavernous halls of Salone del Mobile 2025. Here is a curated list of the most visionary exhibits and installations redefining luxury interiors this year.
Cassina
Cassina commemorated the 60th anniversary of its partnership with Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret and Charlotte Perriand with its “Staging Modernity” display during Milan Design Week 2025. The first four furniture models Cassina created from the trio’s 1929 ideas, which were first displayed at the Salon d’Automne in Paris, are being reintroduced at the restored Teatro Lirico Giorgio Gaber. Cassina and Kiton created a unique fabric to deliver limited-edition pieces that are available in 120 pieces globally. Kiton’s combination of blue and burgundy produces two bi-colour versions of the armchair. Le Corbusier, Perriand and Jeanneret’s design philosophy, which believed that colour was crucial to defining spatial harmony, is reflected in this colour selection.
The best Mongolian farms provide the fibre for Kiton’s wool factory. A significant advancement in design manufacturing was made when Cassina’s R&D team, working with historians, painstakingly examined the original blueprints to bring these handcrafted items into industrial production. Architect Andrés Jaque, artist Feifei Zhou and philosopher Emanuele Coccia all contributed to the much-discussed exhibition organized by Formafantasma and directed by Fabio Cherstich. This interdisciplinary approach strengthens Cassina’s position in developing contemporary design narratives by highlighting the company’s dedication to fusing historical authenticity with modern innovation.
B&B Italia
A sophisticated development of Patricia Urquiola’s original 2005 design, the Tufty-Time 20 was unveiled by B&B Italia to mark the 20th anniversary of the renowned Tufty-Time couch. With more padding and a thicker Dacron layer between the fabric and polyurethane core, this revised modular system improves comfort without sacrificing its distinctive deep-sitting and low-slung profile. The seat height is slightly raised to create better ergonomics.
The curved module is a noteworthy feature that broadens the range of configuration options to include rounder designs appropriate for commercial and residential settings. A new chenille fabric with a bouclé appearance is now available for the sofa, adding an element of elegance to the overall look and feel. The Tufty-Time 20 emphasises sustainability by being wholly disassembled, which enables the recycling or reuse of its parts at the end of its useful life. In addition to the sofa, B&B Italia has introduced a line of coffee tables that work in unison with the modular system.
Minotti
Image: Ciatdesign.com
Minotti debuted a vibrant collection at Salone del Mobile 2025 that skillfully combines modern design sensibilities with characteristics reminiscent of the 1970s. Five renowned design studios—Study MK27, Giampiero Tagliaferri, Hannes Peer, Nendo and GamFratesi — contributed to the presentation. Each contributed a different viewpoint, creating five unique settings that showcase Minotti’s dedication to creativity and craftsmanship.
With an emphasis on cosy, welcoming spaces marked by embracing curves and careful material selection, the exhibition sought to appeal to seasoned fans and a younger audience. This strategy demonstrates Minotti’s commitment to changing its design language without sacrificing the elegance and quality that have come to define the brand. For the 2025 collection, Minotti demonstrated its capacity for innovation and adaptation, guaranteeing its continued relevance in modern furniture design.
Moroso
Moroso debuted its “Normal / Non-Normal” collection at Salone del Mobile 2025, a daring investigation of design that questions established conventions. According to this subject, “normal” is what we consider suitable, secure and practical in life; it is an invitation to defy expectations. But Moroso also presented a counter-movement in which a new design language melded with the “normal” things through the “non-normal” aspects of polymorphic, fluctuating forces. Innovative pieces from this collection include the “Gruuvelot” sofa, which has an organic shape and was inspired by the “morphing” that occurs in many living, natural things. The free-spirited atmosphere of the 1970s, with its flowing shape and dynamic modularity, served as another inspiration. In contrast to conventional methods, Patricia Urquiola’s design for the sofa’s fabric uses a water-based printing technique that reduces water use by 90 percent and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 percent.
Moroso’s Clay armchairs sport shimmering ceramic metal backrests, designed by Zanellato/Bortotto. Image: Moroso.
The “Clay” armchair by Zanellato/Bortotto, which is the other noteworthy item from Moroso 2025’s collection, has a distinctive backrest composed of slabs and thin sheets of ceramic material manufactured by artists who are only found in the town in the Veneto area of Italy. The cushioned, luxurious armchair boasts a striking backrest that gleams because of its priceless glazing method.
Molteni & C
Through several carefully chosen installations, Molteni&C demonstrated its dedication to design innovation and legacy at Salone del Mobile 2025. New pieces like Vincent Van Duysen’s Aria desk and Linea armchair, GamFratesi’s Lia armchair, Christophe Delcourt’s Emile sofa and Tobia Scarpa’s republished Monk chair were featured in the “Letters to Milan” installation. In addition, various items and accessories honouring Ponti’s legacy were on display at the “Gio Ponti Objects” exhibition, which was organised in association with the Ponti heirs and the Gio Ponti Archive.
With interiors created by Van Duysen to mimic the home of an art and design collector, the brand’s flagship store, Palazzo Molteni, provided guests with an immersive experience by skillfully fusing modern and traditional styles in various living areas. Additionally, reiterating the brand’s commitment to classic design, Molteni&C unveiled a new armchair version and upgraded materials for the renowned “Monk” chair, which was first created by Afra and Tobia Scarpa in 1973.
For more decor reads, click here.
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