Lektion 1
Trick Thyself
Use your words daily to reprogram your mind by saying how much you love and appreciate others and their interesting perspectives. Often times we find ourselves thinking unkind things about our fellow humans. I can't tell you how many times throughout the day my friends and family will comment on those around us in a negative way! It's normal, funny, and socially acceptable to speak this way in many circles. Eventually though, it comes at the cost of us forgetting to thing the kind things as well. When was the last time you countered someone who said: "I hate people." with: "Oh, really? I LOVE them!". Let's begin to change our narrative.
Lektion 2
Daily Compassion Mantras
This course wouldn't exist if thinking kindly about others were easy. It's why we have to proactively and intentionally work on changing our mindset every day. This is a list of phrases to listen to when we feel calm (and when we don't) to work on letting our subconscious know that we really would like to think of others in a more positive and loving way. Morning noon and night, repeat these to yourself until any frustration you may feel towards others subsides.
Lektion 3
Like a Parent
In this practice, we learn to view all people as if they are our child, and to respond to their misgivings accordingly. This is not to say that adults who should know better will be let off the hook for things they should already know, it's more of a perspective shift. While maintaining your own boundaries, at least view each individual as if you're only able to see their inner child. It will do wonders for your soul and for your patience and empathy.
Lektion 4
Ego Check
Sometimes when practicing calm and peaceful practices we see others who lack control and we have a tendency to judge their emotional progress. Here are some things to consider. Remembering we aren't “better than them” will greatly help with our sincere delivery when confronting others.
Lektion 5
Know Thyself
A tree with roots will bend in the wind, but won't blow away with the passing leaves. Once we know who we are to our core and trust and love that person, it's so much easier not to allow others to "ruffle our feathers". The idea is simple, but the execution takes practice: Once you love yourself, loving others comes easily.
Lektion 6
Protect Your Own Energy
Know when to take a step back to recharge. It's ok to admit that caring for everyone can be exhausting. We need to keep in mind that it's very important to keep a balance and not to try and give from an empty cup. In this practice, we'll focus on ways to protect our own energy so that we can continue to extend it to others.
Lektion 7
A Guided Meditative Break
You're doing amazing work. Now relax and let me help you today. While the inevitable goal for all of us is to be able to create and sustain our own healthy energy and balance, it's definitely a lovely treat to allow others to help sometimes too. Don't forget that people like me and the entire InsightTimer community is here to help you conserve your energy and spirit. Emotional work is exhausting and breaks are a requirement.
Lektion 8
Simple Recognition
Long commute? Grocery store run? Observe those around you and imagine their story. Send them love, hope, and happiness. It's in these moments that we often get frustrated with people or forget to notice them all together. If we remember to pause and see people for the amazing creatures we really are, it's difficult NOT to feel our powerful connection with one another.
Lektion 9
Friends You Haven't Met Yet
What is a friend? Someone you know intimately? Someone you share commonalities with? Every human is a friend we just haven't had the time to connect with yet. Remember to treat them as such. Not everyone will get along on a surface level or share the same politics or ideals, but each and every one of us deserves love, happiness, and a shot at life. When we focus on our similarities rather than our differences, it's almost impossible not to like someone. Knowing this, extend this knowledge to complete strangers to deepen empathy ever further.
Lektion 10
Attracting Energy Vampires and What To Do About It
In this practice we will address how to handle the most challenging people who are attracted to our light and wish to extinguish it. Know when to walk away, and know how to extend your protective energy to protect yourself when you can't.
Lektion 11
Family Challenges
If you share the exact beliefs and viewpoints as your entire family, then you are a rare and lucky gem. In this practice, we'll address some tips on how to help yourself remain balanced, even when regressing to our immature old patterns.
Lektion 12
Fill Your Own Cup
The work you've been doing in this course can be heavy and a lot to take in for the first time. Here's a reminder that it's much more difficult to love others if we don't at least attempt to love ourselves too. Don't only reserve that precious energy for the world. Let me help you refill your cup today.
Lektion 13
Countering Anxiety Over Human Wellbeing
Now that you love everyone, you may feel a heightened anxiety over the state of the world. We ask questions like, "Should I have protected myself by remaining unaware?" Feeling deeply comes with a price. Sometimes when we choose to open our hearts, the hurt and pain we feel when observing the pain of others can be a lot to bare. It doesn't mean we should stop caring. Here are some tips for remaining open hearted in an energized and strong way, rather than a helpless way. Be brave! It's worth it.
Lektion 14
Continuing the Practice
In this practice we will do an overview of the tips and tricks from this course which will help you in a pinch to remain calm and empathetic. We will commit to consciously choosing love and peace every day. Thank you for making it all of the way through this course. The real work of consistent practice is only just beginning, but I hope that you feel better able to continue on with your goal of love and connection.
