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OPEN MIND OPEN BODY Take A Deep Breath |
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A Meditation on Support
This meditation is inspired by the traditional Buddhist practice of contemplating the many ways you have been a burden to others in your life. I find that focusing on the many ways others have supported you in life is an equally profound way to develop a sense of gratitude and connection. This sense of gratitude may inspire you to offer support to others.
After a practice of breath awareness, to center yourself, begin to reflect on a specific period of time. It could be today, this week, this year, or an earlier period in your life, including your childhood. Ask yourself, "How have I been supported (today, this week, this year....)?"
Wait for memories of specific events and specific people. When one comes up, sit with it for a few breaths, savoring the memory. Then let it go, and wait for another memory to come to mind. The memories may be of different levels of intimacy - the stranger who left a newspaper on the train for you to enjoy; the co-worker who emailed you information you needed; the yoga teacher who touched you in child's pose; the partner who listened to you describe your day.
When you feel a sense of gratitude, shift your attention. Ask yourself, "How have I offered support today (or yesterday)?" Wait for memories of specific events and specific people. When one comes up, sit with it for a few breaths, savoring the memory. Then let it go, and wait for another memory to come to mind.
How does the balance feel, between receiving support and offering support? If you find that one overwhelms the other, finish the meditation by asking, "How can I be open to support today?" or "How can I offer support today?". More important than coming up with a specific action plan is cultivating the intention to receive or offer support.
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