Many of us find self-criticism comes automatically and compassion does not.
The way we relate to ourselves shapes how we move through everything else: our relationships, our stress, even our sense of worth. Loving kindness meditation is one way to practice a different relationship with ourselves and others.
The practice does not force positivity or deny difficult emotions. It repeats simple wishes of well-being, first for yourself and then for others.
In this guided practice, Loving Kindness, Made Simple, the phrases are “May I be well. May I be safe and free from suffering. May I be happy.” You offer them to yourself, then to someone you care about deeply, someone going through a hard time, and someone you have found difficult, and finally to everyone you know and all beings.
Near the end you return to wishes for yourself, with the option of a hand on your heart. The guide invites you to practice in whatever way feels right for you.
