Article by Jessica Wright
Compassion feels good. It resonates with our hearts and souls as it surges through our bodies. Being able to empathize and feel compassion towards yourself and as Buddha said, towards all living creatures, is truly a goal on the path to enlightenment. Awareness of feelings of compassion in guided meditations can greatly improve your quality of life and contribute to a peaceful life style.
Position: Sit comfortably, the half-lotus position has been found to be the most effective in contributing to tranquility and it allows you to sit comfortably without any limbs falling asleep. You can also sit in any comfortable position with your back straight and body relaxed. Hands resting on knees with palms facing up while index fingers and thumbs gently touch.
Rhythmic Breathing: Keep your breaths deep and even, you should be breathing easily and slowly for maximum oxygen intake. On the inhale say the word “OM” very quietly to yourself, then while exhaling say “OM” louder. The rhythm of your breathing will help to relax you and put you at ease.
Detachment: This important step asks for you to detach yourself from your mind, observe it as an outside spectator. You are not your mind; just observe what the mind is thinking without judgment or comment just watch silently in your head. Soon your detachment will cause your mind to cease all the activity it would normally be firing off.
Peace: Imagine yourself as something that is sturdy and grounded like a rock in the ocean or a tree or a mountain. The waves may rise and crash against the rock or the wind may blow through the trees or a heavy snow may cover a mountain but the objects are unaffected. They remain calm and tranquil: peaceful.
Oneness: Realize your oneness with everything that is living. You are in every animal, plant and human, you belong to all communities and countries, there is no division between you and any other living creature, all life is equally sacred. You are one with the universe, let kindness and compassion fill your heart. Respect and cherish all life, from humans to insects.
Immortality: After realizing oneness and that we are all connected spiritually and not just simply physical bodies, we must transcend death. Death is merely the passing of our present physical vessel. Imagine continuing in everything around you: in every living thing. You are immortal in this sense and eternally living on in oneness with humanity, animals, nature and the universe.
Breathing Out: When finishing a guided meditations session it is important breath out a sort of proclamation or type of blessing or prayer. This is a popular one used by many who practice meditation for compassion, happiness and bliss. “May all be happy and full of peace and bliss. Think of all who dwell in the Northern lands, the Southern lands, in Eastern lands and Western lands. May all be happy and full of peace and bliss. All living things whether they be near or far, tall or tiny, rich or poor, educated or illiterate, may all, all, all be happy and full of peace and bliss. You are in them all. It is only when they become happy that you are happy. May all be free from disease, ignorance, sorrow.”
Now that you are feeling relaxed and fulfilled and have experienced guided meditation, practice daily and feel your compassion for yourself and the world around you grow. Guided meditations practice is a step towards enlightenment and awareness that brings peace, tranquility and compassion to you.
About the Author
Jessica Wright is a public speaker, nutritionist, health advisor and a passionate mother of two who enjoys life with family and friends. To help you learn compassion I suggest you practice love affirmations daily.