Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening

I'm curious about the personal or spiritual experiences that led Cynthia Bourgeault to develop this approach. Was there a particular moment that shaped her understanding of meditation and prayer?

The book offers gentle guidance, but I struggled at times to quiet my mind. For those who stuck with it, what helped keep you motivated during the more difficult moments?

I'm interested in how Bourgeault's Christian perspective integrates or contrasts with mindfulness or other contemplative practices I've encountered elsewhere.