There’s been lots of violence and conflict globally and within the UK. Riots have even come to Bristol last weekend and are said to return tonight. We decided to close our studio as people felt unsafe coming into the city.
In a divisive time, we felt sharing Metta Bhavana (loving kindness meditation) would be beneficial.
I was taught Metta Bhavana, loving kindness meditation from a wise meditation teacher and a Buddhist monk. He said that it’s very important to be compassionate towards ourselves so that we can extend kindness to others.
There are many ways to practice Metta Bhavana, but the simplest way is to recite the affirmation during relaxation or mediation. Spend some time connecting to your body, breath, and mind. Bring your hands gently onto your chest and visualise communicating to yourself.
May I be happy
May I be safe
May I be healthy
May I be free
You can choose to say it aloud or silently. Repeat this again but changing of ‘I’ to ‘you’. You might like to change the hand position forwards in front of you, as though you’re giving the loving message to someone.
You can start by visualising someone you like, then change it to someone you don’t know very well, then to someone you dislike slightly. It’s easier to start with people you dislike a little bit then to try doing this to those you’re in conflict with.
Finally, you can extend the wishes to ‘all living beings’. It’s nice to open your arms wide like you’re giving it to everyone.
Loka Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu - May everyone in the world be happy
OM Shanti Shanti Shanti - Peace for mankind