May you be well. May you be happy. May you be free from suffering.
Today I share with you Metta Bhavana, a practice of developing compassion or loving kindness. This is a beautiful gift that not only benefits your life, but the entire world. We all want to experience wellness, happiness, and freedom from suffering. When we practice Metta Bhavana you open your heart and sense love to offer to yourself and others.
Why take the time to do this?
Many people are looking for positive change, not only within themselves but with interactions with others. Many are also striving for inspired livelihood and wellness. When we practice compassion regularly it brings a shift to our lives and the lives around us. It brings a sense of calm, appreciation, understanding, and acceptance. Imagine a life of peace and harmony, even if experienced in a moment.
Vishin Lakhiani shares that developing compassion increases positivity, lessens stress, slows down the aging process, and attracts us to those whom we want to date.
How do we develop compassion through the practice of Metta Bhavana?
With regular practice of going within and sending unconditional love to others through a 5-stage process we begin to transform. Some enjoy starting or ending their day going through the stages. Others may engage in a weekly practice or whatever feels best.
Metta Bhavana Stage 1: Compassion & Loving Kindness for Ourselves
There are a million thoughts that run through our minds. We have a lot of self-talk. Do you ever listen to what you are saying to yourself? Do your thoughts encourage you, cheer you on, celebrate you?
Or do your thoughts limit your abilities, put you down, or condemn you?
During this stage of the Metta Bhavana we center ourselves, turn inward and notice any sensations within. Bring your attention to your heart center. Observe what you find here. You may notice peace, calm, joy, or possibly a negative emotion. Or maybe you feel neutral.
There is no right or wrong. This is what you feel at this time and that is alright. We all have to begin somewhere and this is where you will begin.
Imagine unconditional love along with the sense of non-judgement, acceptance, joy and appreciation. Allow this feeling to enter your heart. As you take in and experience this sensation; wish yourself well by saying: “May I be well. May I be happy. May I be free from suffering.”
Take a few moments by repeating the mantra, “May I be well. May I be happy. May I be free from suffering.” Allow this energy to fill your heart. Allow this energy to ripple throughout your being.
You have completed the first stage of the Metta Bhavana practice. Next month we will introduce you to the second stage.
You are welcome to experience all 5 stages during our Loving Kindness meditation in person.
For more information: http://www.reikipagoda.com/meditations/
