Guided Meditation • Visualization • Mindfulness

In preparation for this evening’s class on the heart center, it occured to me how the energy of compassion, forgiveness, empathy and kindness nourishes the entire body and mind.

The heart center correlates to our body’s circulatory system.  The circulatory system feeds, oxygenates and removes waste from the entire body.  Looking at the picture of our circulatory system, I imagined how the energy of compassion travels the same route, bathing our bodies in light and ease while at the same time removing negativity.  I also imagined how feelings of anger, resentment, and even hatred are destructive to the body, since this negative energy travels along the same route. 

It occurs to me how vital compassion, empathy and forgiveness are to our total health and wellbeing.  This week, please practice along with me the Loving Kindness Meditation.  Let’s bring health and healing to ourselves and our world.

Loving Kindness Meditation:

Assume a meditative posture and repeat silently to yourself
1. “May I be safe, May I be happy, May I be healthy, May I live with ease.”

2.While visualizing someone whom you feel grateful towards, such as a mentor, a friend, or a loved one, say silently to yourself:
“May you be safe, May you be happy, May you be healthy, May you live with ease.”

3.While visualizing someone whom you are indifferent towards, such as a grocery store clerk, repeat statement number 2.

4.While visualize someone with whom you are having a difficult relationship with, repeat the statement number 2.

Because our feelings about people can be complicated, this meditation can be very challenging. However, with practice it can be transformative.

For more information see: http://www.beliefnet.com/Health/2000/07/Opening-The-Heart.aspx