Today I am sharing another lesson in compassion.
1st Step
Recall an earlier time in your life when something difficult was happening. You may have felt emotionally uncomfortable for a short or a long time. It might have been a single experience or a challenging period of time.
Invite yourself to feel compassion toward the younger you who was going through that. Talk to this younger version of yourself or write a 10-minute note. You might start with something along the lines of this:
“I’m so sorry you are in the midst of this tough time. I feel deep compassion for you and want to give you support this very minute. You can tell me your troubles, and I will listen to you with my heart.”
2nd Step
Let this younger part of yourself speak or write whatever is bothering her or him. Let a stream-of-consciousness flow without editing. Speak or write for 5-to-10 minutes. Then sit a few moments, feeling love toward the younger you. Maybe even hug yourself. You might murmur comforting words to yourself. “I love you. You’re going to be alright. I’m here with you now.”
After sending love to the younger you, tune into how you are feeling in the present moment. What do you notice?
Practicing these 2 steps can help you grow your ability to feel compassion toward yourself. After practicing several times, you might bring in a recent difficulty. Eventually, compassion for yourself will simply happen, without taking the steps. Be patient with yourself, self-compassion is a journey rather than a race or competition.
You might enjoy reading the post on How to Grow Compassion.
Blissings, Dena
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