Life can be challenging,
And in difficult moments,
We're often hardest on ourselves.
But you deserve kindness,
The same kindness you would offer to a dear friend.
In this practice,
We'll cultivate self-compassion.
So,
Find a comfortable position where you feel supported.
Close your eyes and take a moment to arrive here.
Take a deep breath in through your nose,
Filling your lungs,
And exhale gently,
Letting your shoulders drop,
Your body soften and relax.
Feel the surface beneath you holding you,
And allow yourself to be fully supported in this moment.
And now bring your awareness to your breath.
Notice the gentle rhythm as it flows in and out.
Feel the rise and fall of your belly,
The softness as you exhale.
Let your breath anchor you here,
Creating a sense of ease and presence.
Now bring to mind something that feels difficult,
Something challenging in your life right now.
It could be a mistake you've made,
A regret,
It could be a feeling of discomfort or pain.
Just bring it to mind,
And notice how the struggle with it feels in your body.
Where does it show up?
Perhaps there's a tightness,
A heaviness,
Or a sense of restlessness.
Simply acknowledge it without judgement.
Feeling this way is a part of being human.
It's natural.
And now,
Place a hand over your heart.
If there's an area where you feel more comfort,
Place your hand there,
And feel the warmth from the hand sinking into the body.
Silently say to yourself,
In your mind,
This is a moment of struggle.
It's okay to feel this way.
May I offer myself the kindness I need.
This is a moment of struggle.
It's okay to feel this way.
May I offer myself the kindness I need.
Let these words resonate within you.
Feel the warmth of your hand,
Healing.
Feel the care that you're offering yourself.
Picture yourself as a small child,
Or imagine someone you love,
Deeply,
Standing before you.
What would you say to them in this moment of struggle?
What words of kindness or encouragement would you offer?
Now turn those words inward.
Speaking to yourself with the same compassion.
Silently say,
May I be kind to myself.
May I accept myself as I am.
May I hold myself with care.
Feel the gentleness of these intentions,
Softening your heart.
Being human means feeling joy and also pain.
But you are not alone in your struggles.
The kindness you give to yourself,
Is a bridge to healing,
To becoming whole,
To full acceptance of yourself.
You deserve the same compassion that you so freely offer to others.
Take a deep breath in through your nose.
And a soft and slow,
Steady exhale.
When you're ready,
Gently open your eyes.
Carry this sense of self-compassion with you,
Letting it guide you through the day ahead.
May you be kind to yourself always.
