What Are Daily Loving-Kindness Breaks?
If you are a workaholic, “taking a break” might seem taboo. But setting aside time for ourselves is necessary; we need it to slow down, centre ourselves, and reflect on how we’re feeling.
One way to do that is by practising daily meditation. Have you heard of a loving-kindness break?
When you take the time to understand someone else’s situation, you can learn a lot about yourself. This is the foundation of the loving-kindness practice.
By showing more compassion to other people, we can offer that same kindness and respect to ourselves, too. Here’s how to make loving-kindness breaks part of your daily routine:
How To Practise Loving-Kindness Meditation
From the outside, meditation looks easy. But those who have tried it know it’s harder than it looks. Here’s how to put this practice in motion:
The beauty of a loving-kindness break is you can do it anywhere you go. Try it when you’re waiting for an appointment, on the bus, or out for lunch. All you need is a bit of time.
Set aside 5-10 minutes to practise this meditation each day. We suggest setting a reminder on your phone to ensure you make the time for it.
Ideally, choose a moment when you aren’t preoccupied with something else. Put away any distractions. You’ll see greater benefits if you aren’t multitasking during your meditation.
Next, look around you. Who do you see? You might be surrounded by shoppers, pedestrians, friends, or family. Choose one person, and pay them your full attention. Think about what brought them to this place and how their day might be going.
If you can, close your eyes, and send them a positive wish. A few loving-kindness affirmations to try include:
- I am sending this person peace and happiness.
- I hope this person is safe and healthy.
- I want this person to receive kindness and support from those around them.
Finally, take that positive energy you wished upon someone else, and apply it to yourself. Show yourself the same compassion, acceptance, and kindness that you just sent to that other person.
Notice how you feel. Most likely, the exercise has given you a sense of calm and peace. You may feel like you have more mental space and clarity. Overall, this practice can help you develop more patience and understanding of those around you.
The Benefits of Loving-Kindness Breaks
Do you ever feel like, no matter what you do, you just can’t shake the feeling that something is wrong?
In our busy lives, we rarely slow down—we may not know what’s bothering us in the first place. A daily loving-kindness break gives us space to pause, breathe, and look within ourselves. It allows us to see what we’re holding on to, whether it’s regret, envy, or anger.
By making this meditation a daily practice, you may notice more emotional strength, stronger self-compassion, and better focus.
Love Yourself
Balance your mind with a daily practice of loving-kindness meditation. Showing love to those around us is just another part of loving yourself. From our team at Bare Body Sugaring in Winnipeg, we hope this practice offers you peace of mind.
