And, ss, in answer to your question here about whether we've noticed a shift since practicing meditation more regularly, I think I really have, yes! I feel as though I am slightly less reactive and less apt to slip into auto-pilot mode. In difficult or trigger moments, I seem to be more aware that I have options. That I don't have to react in the same predictable and unhealthy way. Even if I can't always follow through with my actions, at least the idea comes to me now that there is another way - a mindful way - for me to respond to a difficult or challenging situation.