About ten years into my journalism career, I realized that the almost-constant negativity of the news was taking a toll on my health and my relationships. Sometimes, managers and colleagues viewed putting-up with the stress as an implicit part of the business, even a badge of honor. 

 

My coping strategy was to numb myself, to keep myself at an emotional distance from my stories, and to vent to my colleagues and my partner. I thought that was for my own health, but it wasn’t working. 

 

In 1991, I began practicing meditation at a weekly Tibetan Buddhist sangha (group) in Tucson, where I lived. My practice deepened profoundly in 1993 during a week of practice and teachings with the Dalai Lama. Since then, I have studied and practiced with a variety of terrific teachers. I've been to a number of silent meditation retreats. I have trained as a teacher with Frank-Jude Boccio, who has developed what he calls Zen Naturalism—practice rooted in “naturalistic, scientific, empirical understanding.” 

 

I gradually became better at handling stress. And I’ve been able to connect better with my sources, co-workers, and friends. Now, after many years as a correspondent, editor, and manager with NPR I am offering what I’ve learned to you.