Mindfulness Foundation – Generosity: No true spiritual life is possible without a generous heart.
Often we relate of Generosity or being generous with family and friends. Generosity extends to everyone as we are all inter connected.
Generosity is a important step in shifting our thinking from I to others. Once we start to reflect and and connect with the quality of Generosity, we see the commonality and interdependence. With this wisdom, the fear, anger start to become different. Instead of threat people start to become someone we can work with.
Listen to our Podcast & Guided Meditation on Acceptance:
There are Seven attitudinal foundations of mindfulness described by Jon Kabat-Zinn as the “major pillars of mindfulness practice”. The ninth one is Generosity.
We can begin by reflecting on Generosity, and feeling the interconnectedness and commonality between us all.
If any counter thoughts come, we can take time to think of one good thing someone may have done for us once in past. This can help us soften a bit. From there we can grateful and see how we can be generous and work with others.
This does not mean we cant or should give away everything. Being generous and knowing we are connected and depend on others helps us relax and be calm. From being present in the moment, we can work with power that we have and be able to wise choose on how to be generous.
Try below practice to cultivate Generosity as part of your Mindfulness meditation:
REFLECT: As you settle in a formal meditation or sit and find time to reflect, just focus on Breathing. Notice the air going in and out.
Next on Generosity – what thoughts come to mind? Do any thoughts come counter to being generous with someone or giving?
See if you can Note your thoughts, feelings and sensations without getting hooked into the experience. Observe, If you feel any light or strong emotions like anger, anxiety, feelings like worry etc.
RESPOND: Come back to breathing, slow deep breathing.
Next, think of one good thing in past a person or people may have done. Be grateful and thankful. Let this help you relax and soften. From this place of gratitude, see how we are connected and dependent.
INTEGRATE: Remember this “Generosity” exercise. Breathe Relax, Let Go and Choose to be Generous.
No true spiritual life is possible without a generous heart.
Generosity allies itself with an inner feeling of abundance – the feeling that we have enough to share.“Buddha
About the Author of Quote: The Buddha (also known as Siddhattha Gotama or Siddhārtha Gautama or Buddha Shakyamuni) was a philosopher, mendicant, meditator, spiritual teacher, and religious leader who lived in Ancient India (c. 5th to 4th century BCE). He is revered as the founder of the world religion of Buddhism, and worshipped by most Buddhist schools as the Enlightened One who has transcended Karma and escaped the cycle of birth and rebirth.
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Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present in the moment. Mindfulness has many benefits for us at work and in personal life, such as increased focus and happiness. The practice can help us reduce stress and anxiety.
What it is: Mindfulness can be defined as ‘Non-judgmental, moment to moment awareness’
What it isn’t: Emptying the mind, Achieving Relaxation or Religion.
READ MORE on What is Mindfulness Meditation?
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