Meditation & mindfulness
A gentle meditation using simple well-wishes to cultivate kindness toward yourself and gradually extend it to others.
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Loving-kindness meditation uses silently repeated well-wishes as an object of attention and intention. You do not need to force yourself to feel loving or peaceful.
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The practice is to offer sincere wishes for well-being, often beginning with yourself or someone who naturally evokes warmth, then gradually widening the circle.
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When attention wanders, notice it and return to the phrases without judging yourself.
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Sit comfortably and set a timer for about 10 to 15 minutes. Take a few natural breaths, then choose three or four simple phrases such as may I be safe, may I be healthy, may I be peaceful, and may I live with ease.
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Repeat each phrase slowly for several minutes. Then bring to mind someone you care about and change the wording to may you. If it feels steady, extend the wishes to a neutral person or a wider group.
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Finish with a few quiet breaths.
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Do not force a strong emotion or use warmth as a score for whether the meditation worked. Some days the phrases may feel natural; on other days they may feel flat or uncomfortable. Both experiences can be part of practice.
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If bringing someone to mind creates too much distress, return to yourself or an easier person. Keep the words simple, believable, and gentle enough to repeat.
Read the full article for common questions and how to practice with Mokugyo.