Hello,
Paschal Indy here.
Here's a short compassion practice designed to help us appreciate our positive qualities,
Like kindness.
So first,
Finding a comfortable sitting,
Standing or lying position.
Closing the eyes or leaving the eyes open with a soft gaze.
And taking a few nice,
Long,
Deep breaths.
With a sense of letting go on the exhale.
And then allowing the breath to settle into its own natural rhythm.
And now bringing to mind a time you responded with care and kindness to somebody else.
Maybe you were generous or caring or contributed to their well-being in some way.
Could be something very simple,
Like sharing a smile or some food or sending an encouraging text message.
And if something comes to mind,
Remembering the feelings that came with that experience.
How did it feel to be kind?
What did you do or say?
Did you use a particular tone of voice?
Was there any physical contact,
Like a hug?
And what was your attitude towards this other person?
What did you want to offer this person at that time?
And if nothing is coming to mind,
Perhaps you could remember another one of your strengths.
Or qualities.
And if it's possible,
Taking a moment to really appreciate that quality in yourself.
If that feels somehow forced,
Maybe just taking a moment to appreciate the breath that you're breathing right now.
Or taking a moment to appreciate the sensations of contact between yourself and whatever's supporting you,
Like the floor or a chair.
And even if there was a negative reaction to your kindness,
See if you can just stay with your intention,
Your kind intention.
And now inviting you to repeat the following phrases silently to yourself.
May I be able to appreciate the kindness I show to others.
May I be able to appreciate the kindness I show to others.
May I be able to appreciate my qualities and strengths.
May I be able to appreciate my qualities and strengths.
And if it feels right,
Just spending a moment really appreciating your gifts and qualities.
You might also like to make a kind wish for yourself.
Maybe it's that you could take time to appreciate your own kindness.
To listen to your needs more often.
To give yourself the rest you need.
To be as caring to yourself as you are to others.
So just taking a moment to make a wish that's specific for you.
Now letting go of any thoughts,
Resting the mind,
Resting in any positive feelings we may have.
Evoked and if you wish you can continue perhaps taking time to appreciate your kindness or other qualities about yourself during the day.
Thanks for taking time to reconnect.
