Meditation is a way for your soul to connect with God and the universe. Each of us needs this connection in order to feel nourished, complete and fulfilled.

When I first began channeling, Archangel Gabriel encouraged me to begin a meditation practice. I’ll be honest: The idea sounded ridiculous to me. I was a stay-at-home mom of three children, with one in school and two at home. I didn’t know where to start.

Archangel Gabriel suggested I sit on a comfortable chair, cross my legs, and put my hands — palms facing up — on my knees. He said this shows I am open to receive.

So, I tried it. At night, after my kids went to bed. And do you know what happened? I fell asleep. I’d go into meditation and fall asleep. Every time.

But the important thing was I tried.

I then asked my angels and guides to help me find other ways to meditate. Here’s what I realized. Meditation takes on many forms. I opened my mind in meditation when I took a walk outdoors; while I folded laundry; during my morning shower. I tried to clear my mind of scattered thoughts … and simply listen.

What did I hear? My voice. The voice of my soul. Intermingled with the voice of God and the angels. Encouragement. Ideas. Inspiration. Truths.

I also joined a Monday night meditation group at a local spiritual center. And that really got the ball rolling. Once I became more comfortable practicing within a group of likeminded individuals, it felt easier to try to meditate a little more at home.

The idea is to keep it simple, sister. Take baby steps. Begin with a meditation that lasts for five minutes; then, build up to 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes or more. Take a few deep breaths, clear your mind of thoughts, and listen.

Eventually you will slip into deeper and deeper states of meditation. And enjoy the many benefits of meditation, like reduced stress, better sleep, improved health, a greater sense of well-being and — ultimately — peace. In addition, meditation is an important tool in developing your intuition.

The key is to continue practicing.