Find Inner Warmth Through Loving Kindness

As autumn grows cooler,

We are naturally seeking warmth,

Just like my cat.

We search for warm drinks,

Cozy blankets,

And comforting meals.

Today's meditation will guide you through a loving kindness practice,

Sending warmth first to yourself,

Then to others,

And finally to the broader world around us.

Find a comfortable position and close your eyes.

Take a deep breath and place your hand over your heart.

Now silently repeat to yourself,

May I be safe.

May I be healthy.

May I be at ease.

Breathe these words into your heart.

Now bring to mind someone you love.

Picture them clearly in your mind's eye.

Silently offer them,

May you be safe.

May you be healthy.

May you be at ease.

Next expand to somebody neutral.

Perhaps a neighbor,

A coworker,

Or a stranger you've seen.

Offer them the same wishes.

May you be safe.

May you be healthy.

May you be at ease.

Lastly,

Let's extend this warmth outward to all beings everywhere.

May all beings be safe.

May all beings be healthy.

May all beings be at ease.

Rest here for a few breaths,

Feeling the warmth expand from within.

When you're ready,

Gently return to the present,

Carrying the beauty and warmth of this compassion with you.

Compassion is a practice that grows stronger the more we share it.

I invite you to do one small act of kindness,

A smile,

A kind word,

Or simply patience with yourself.