Whilst kindness can be often thought of as giving to others we can forget to give this to ourselves. You deserve your own love and affection as much as anyone does.
Ahimsa, 1st of the Yamas (part of the 8 limbs of yoga) teaches us non violence – to ourselves, others and the environment, in the way that we speak and act. The Yama practices can be said to be cleaning techniques for our mind, body and spirit, so that we are able to live more consciously, liberated and Ahimsa is the foundation, which we do this from.
When we show kindness in thought it’s like a big hug, we feel calm, our body relaxes, we find connection, like we belong and are safe. We talk about it being a practice as it takes work.
Take a moment to reflect on what you appreciate about yourself, it can be a quality, trait or recent act of kindness. Try to catch yourself next time you think negatively and remind yourself of this.
“Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habit. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.” – Lao Tzu
Bring to mind someone you don’t really know that well. This may be someone you have seen in the street, who you see on the bus, or pass in the corridor at work.
Send these feelings to them:
May you be well.
May you be happy.
May you abide in peace.
Bring to mind someone you have recently been upset with or have argued with.
Send them these feelings of care:
May you be well.
May you be happy.
May you abide in peace.
Bring the awareness to the heart space, start to take the breath deeper and slower, using this space for loving compassion:
Repeat to yourself:
May I be well, healthy and strong.
May I be happy.
May I abide in peace.
Bring into your mind someone you like a lot and respect.
Send them these feelings:
May you be well.
May you be happy.
May you abide in peace.
If you feel you can, do this with someone who has hurt you. It is important to remember that this isn’t about what they have done, you are allowing yourself to let go of any residual pain or anger you hold, giving you freedom from those feelings.
Sending them the same care you have given out to the others:
May you be well.
May you be happy.
May you abide in peace.
Focus back on you, see if the feelings of love and kindness have come into the forefront, breathing in love, breathing out love. Finish by becoming aware of your breathing and the space around you once again.
Yoga by the Lune
Yoga by the Lune was born out of a passion to create a safe and welcoming space to inspire, connect and support people. Helping to bring back connection and kindness to ourselves, others and the environment. Yoga isn’t about getting into a pose, it’s connecting back to ourselves, coming back in, living in the present authentically, without judgement or harm.
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