Self-Compassion Through the Body

Here’s a Sample of the “Self-Compassion Through the Body” Guided Meditation Script:

Hello, and welcome to this self-compassionate journey through the body. This is a meditation that will guide us through the physical body one area at a time while cultivating kindness towards our physical being.

Before we begin, please note that even though our intention is to cultivate compassion towards the body, you may notice that unkind thoughts arise. Many of us have a difficult relationship with certain parts of our body, and so whatever arises is natural. This is something we will work with as part of this practice.

For example, as you pay attention to your feet, you might find yourself thinking,

“My feet are sore. I don’t take good enough care of my body.”

Or,

“I wish my feet were different.”

If a thought like this arises, see if you can simply label it as a thought—that is, not an absolute truth—and return your attention to the present moment, in which you are focusing on your feet. 

Another experience you might have is to find yourself being self-critical due to any unkindness or judgment that might come up.

This could sound something like, “I don’t take good enough care of my body… and here I go being hard on myself again. I just can’t get it right!”

Once again, notice this as just a thought as you tune into your experience with gentleness and curiosity.

[pause]

So, take a moment to settle into a comfortable, alert posture. This meditation can be done sitting up or lying down.

Whatever position you’re in, start by noticing the surface beneath you, allowing the ground to support you. You can also let your eyes close if that feels comfortable for you.