A friend of mine, Lawry Dolph, claims that as a youngster he didn’t win fencing championships because he was the best dueler. Lightning moves by his more gifted opponents came at him in slow motion. He won because he had learned to expand time.

Meditation is a skill. The more we do it the better we get. And it can improve all of our other skills. Since I’ve been meditating I think I’ve become a better tennis player and a better listener.

Controlling the flow, Lawry Dolph steps inside an opponent’s attack and thrusts home to victory, circa 1967.

Photo used with permission of Lawrence Dolph

By slowing down our thoughts and expanding time, we eliminate distraction and anxiety and create an opportunity for more choices. We notice how we are reacting and whether it’s helpful. Lawry says his meditation skills learned as a fencer have saved his life and others repeatedly, on the job, behind the wheel and during his military service in Vietnam.

Meditation gives the mind practice at staying open, relaxed and alert. What better combination for being at our best?

Next week I’ll offer a technique to help you learn to focus on whatever you want to improve. In the meantime, let me know what you’re thinking.

As a mental health professional, an owner of a fitness studio, a writer and a wife, mother and grandmother, I have found meditation to be helpful in every aspect of my life. Let's talk... My novel, A Barroom View of Love, is in an online contest. To read a chapter and vote go to nexttopauthor.com/?aid=580 You can also contact me at susanmmorales@yahoo.com or check out my websites: susanscottmorales.com and bodiesinbalancefitness.com