What The Buddha Said About Metta Practice

 

 

Metta "Loving Kindness" Meditation is an ancient practice where the practitioner typically directs thoughts of loving kindness to an ever expanding circle of people - starting with oneself and eventually to include all sentient beings.    The cool thing about Metta practice is that you can whip it out any old time and lay it on yourself if you're in need, or anyone who you happen to be with at the moment.    Pretty handy..    And - the words of the Metta Prayer are not sectarian. They cover the basic needs of all sentient beings, peace, happiness, safety, awareness of one's true nature, and freedom.    I dig it. The Buddha even weighed in on Metta. He went so far as to list eleven (!) benefits one receives as a result of directing loving kindness to others and oneself.  (Further explication of the list can be found in this Tricycle article.) You sleep well You wake up feeling well You're not likely to have nightmares Your body relaxes and your face is joyful Even animals and celestial beings feel drawn to you. Spirits protect you Fire, poisons, and weapons will not harm you. Your mind immediately becomes calm. Your complexion brightens. You’ll die with a clear mind. You’ll die in peace.   Other GNBN posts about Metta can be found here. May you be peaceful May you be happy May you be safe May you awaken to the light of your true nature May you be free.

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