Space,
Or feeling.
It's common to tighten around your discomfort.
You tense the body when you are struggling,
Trying to rid yourself of the unpleasantness.
Instead of tightening,
You can make room for the pain,
Welcoming it in and meeting it with a caring presence.
You have the power to retrain the mind.
This helps you build a non-reactive awareness.
Rather than being controlled by every challenging situation,
You can notice it,
Allow it to be present,
And move forward.
Find a comfortable position.
You may investigate doing this exercise sitting or lying down.
Give yourself a few minutes to settle.
Breathe deeply,
Allowing the mind and body to relax with each exhale.
Without ignoring the unpleasantness,
Invite in calmness.
Pay attention to the painful emotion you are experiencing.
Don't fall into the story.
Recognize how the mind and body feel right now.
Ask if it is sadness,
Fear,
Frustration,
Or disappointment.
Just notice the general tone and experience you are feeling.
Begin making space for the emotion by offering a few phrases of compassion.
Remember your intention to care for the pain,
Rather than push it away.
Offer these phrases to the pain or difficulty.
You are welcome here.
There is space for you.
May I welcome you with compassion.
Continue to offer these phrases and reconnect with your intention to tend to the experience with an open and caring heart.
Return to your breath.
With each exhale,
Soften the body.
Let your shoulders drop down.
Allow your jaw to relax and soften the muscles in the abdomen.
Gently flutter your eyes and take in your surroundings.
As you return to your day,
Remember this compassion that you have felt and make space for it.
