Self Kindness - Part 1

Sit in a comfortable place where you can move around a little bit if necessary.

Close your eyes for a few moments and focus on your breath. Allow your breathing to be as it is. Watch as your body settles into the present moment.

Think of your breath as a messenger, letting you know how you’re feeling in this moment, physically and emotionally. Allow whatever you find to simply be there along with you.

Notice the feeling of the breath, and if there’s a pause before you exhale.

Notice the sensation of breathing out.

(pause...)

Think of a loving presence. It could be a beloved family member, or a friend – one who is living, or one who has passed away.

It could be a spiritual figure, like a teacher, the Dalai Lama, a minister, or a guide. For many people, it’s a pet. Dogs and cats are often great teachers of unconditional love.

It can also be an archetypal or god/goddess figure – Jesus, the Great Mother Goddess, the Buddha, Allah.

Anyone who brings you a feeling of peace, of love, and of safety. Of being cared for. Of being accepted exactly as you are in this moment.

If no one comes to mind, you can also imagine what you would want to experience from a guide, mentor or loved one who loved you unconditionally. How would you feel in their presence?