Hello and welcome.
My name is Kate Wood.
Let's embark on a journey through a compassionate listening meditation.
Begin by finding a quiet and comfortable space to sit or lie down.
Notice if you need to make any movements to make this a little more comfortable for you and allow yourself to make the adjustments necessary listening to your own intuition.
Allow your body to settle into a natural state of ease.
Gently close your eyes and begin taking a few deep breaths.
Inhaling slowly and exhaling fully.
Begin lengthening your inhales and lengthening your exhales.
As you breathe,
Allow any tension or distractions to fade away.
Feel the tranquility of staying with your breath.
Allow the rhythm of your breath to guide you into a deep state of relaxation.
Bring your attention to the act of listening.
Imagine opening your ears as receptive channels ready to receive the experiences and emotions of others.
Picture the space within your heart opening,
Creating room for empathy and understanding.
Using your breath as an anchor to ground you.
Continue to lengthen your inhales and exhales.
Think of a person in your life who may need compassionate listening.
It could be a friend,
A family member,
Or even yourself.
Envision them standing in front of you seeking solace and understanding.
As you breathe and imagine absorbing their words,
Emotions,
And energy.
Feeling their experiences flow into your heart.
As you exhale,
Release any judgments or preconceptions.
Let go of the need to fix or solve any of their problems.
Instead,
Simply sit and be present with them in the moment.
As you listen with compassion,
Notice any emotions arising within yourself.
Practicing equanimity,
Allowing for the emotions to arise without assigning judgment.
They're not good or bad.
Allowing them,
Noticing them,
And breathing through the experience without allowing them to overwhelm you.
You are a witness,
A supportive presence,
And a safe space for yourself and those around you.
If your mind begins to wander or if judgment begins to arise,
Gently bring focus back to your breath.
Inhaling the essence of their story and exhaling any distractions or thoughts that may arise.
Continue this practice of compassionate listening,
Fostering a genuine connection with the person in your mind.
When you feel complete with this experience,
Gradually bring your awareness back to the present moment.
Using your guiding breath,
Begin to open your eyes with a renewed sense of empathy and understanding,
Carrying this compassion with you as you interact with others throughout your day.
May this meditation cultivate a deep well of compassion within you,
Enhancing your ability to listen to others with an open heart.
The light in love in me bows to the light in love in you.
Namaste.
