Compassion: Want some?

Here it goes, start simply with a common exercise called the LOVING KINDNESS MEDITATION. All you need is a quiet space and about 15 min.

·      In that quiet space, sit in a comfortable position.

·      Focus on your breath and try to clear your mind.

·      Mentally focus on your heart area and think about someone you feel tenderness toward.

·      This could be your spouse or your mom or your child.

·      Dwell on those positive thoughts for a little bit & then extend that same feeling toward yourself.

·      Ruminate on that for a little while, then expand that feeling out to others, maybe think of someone you aren't as close to and think tenderly about them.

·      As time allows add more people to that circle.

After a little practice, you can add people who don't automatically inspire tender thoughts.

Serious practitioners eventually add in all of humanity.

This may sound a little woo-woo, but several studies show this simple exercise really does strengthen your sense of compassion.