The practice of loving-kindness

THE ART OF LOVING KINDNESS

Loving-kindness, or "metta" in sanskrit, is the invitation to make friends with yourself...a more challenging task than ever there was!! We are experts when it comes to advising, encouraging, taking care of and loving others. Our loved ones only have to call upon us and we drop everything to come to their aid. You know who you are. Enablers, accommodators, good "co's" (co-dependents) with ages of built in doing for others. People in the health professions suffer what is called "compassion fatigue"...the emotional and physical exhaustion resulting from prolonged exposure to trauma or traumatized individuals, often leading to a decreased capacity for empathy and compassion. It's also known as secondary traumatic stress or vicarious trauma.

So you see...when we forget to make friends with ourself, and drop everything to take care of others, we actually end of full of resentment. Our bodies know this faster than we do...we develop headaches, heartaches, exhaustion, and a feeling of hatred towards our professions and those we serve. I remember wanting to "divorce" myself from interpreting....I even wrote a letter to myself asking for a break from my profession.

The key here is to pay attention. Listen to what your body-mind is saying. Take a moment every day to nurture yourself, to make a date to meditate on the loving kindness that is within you and is begging for development in however works for you.

Ok, so let's get down to some easy ways to get to know yourself and offer some kindness in your direction:

1. Find a Quiet Space:

   Choose a comfortable place where you can sit or lie down without being disturbed. 

2. 2. Focus on Yourself:

   Begin by directing loving-kindness towards yourself, repeating phrases like "May I be well, may I be happy, may I be at peace," or similar affirmations. 

3. 3. Expand Your Circle:

   Gradually extend your loving-kindness to others, starting with loved ones, then friends, and eventually to all beings. 

4. 4. Use Affirmations:

   Silently repeat phrases of loving-kindness, such as "May you be well, may you be happy, may you be at peace," or "May you be free from suffering". 

5. 5. Include Difficult People:

   Extend your loving-kindness to those who are difficult or challenging in your life, wishing them well and wishing them peace. 

6. 6. Be Mindful:

   Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings as you practice, and gently redirect your attention back to the loving-kindness phrases if it wanders. 

7. 7. Practice Regularly:

   Make loving-kindness meditation a regular part of your routine to cultivate these positive qualities in your life. 

Example Phrases:

• "May I be well."

• "May I be happy."

• "May I be at peace."

• "May you be well."

• "May you be happy."

• "May you be at peace."

• "May all beings be free from suffering."