June 17 - Loving Kindness

Day 168 of a year of Kindness

This morning my friend, e'Layne Kelley, asked me if I had ever shared a “loving kindness meditation” with my “peeps” (that’s you). I had forgotten all about it! I shared this meditation with my students one semester and then apparently, it left my mind.

It’s a popular Buddhist practice and an easy, science-backed technique that can boost compassion and wellbeing. If done regularly it can also transform feelings of anger, hate or indifference into compassion. So, I looked up Jack Kornfield, a Buddhist who practices this technique, found a free guided meditation online, and followed along for 30 minutes. During the mediation, he asks you to silently repeat a series of positive affirmations directed at yourself. Eventually you direct them towards people you love and then eventually to people you dislike/hate and then to the world around you. 

Through regular practice, it can enhance your ability to extend kindness and understanding not just to yourself but also to those around you. I was so glad e’Layne reminded me of this practice. It’s a very easy way to put some loving kindness back into the world.

Science of kindness: Research shows that routine practice of a loving kindness meditation can help reduce stress, increase empathy, and improve emotional resilience. It's a gentle reminder to prioritize self-care and mental health, encouraging a deeper connection with your own needs and emotions. #bekind #kindnessiscontagious #kindnessisfree #kindness #lovingkindness #guidedmeditation