In a world that can feel a little chaotic at times, the practice of loving-kindness is like a deep breath for the soul. Loving-kindness, or Metta, is all about intentionally cultivating love and compassion—starting with ourselves and radiating outward. It’s a reminder that love isn’t just something we feel; it’s something we practice, both on and off the mat.

What is Loving-Kindness?

At its core, loving-kindness is the practice of choosing goodwill over judgment, openness over fear, and love over reactivity. It’s not about ignoring the tough stuff—it’s about meeting it with a kind heart. Studies show that practicing loving-kindness can boost self-acceptance, ease stress, and help us feel more connected to the world around us.

On a personal level, it might look like speaking to yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a friend. It’s those small everyday moments—being patient in traffic, offering a smile to a stranger, or showing grace to a loved one on a tough day.

Bringing Loving-Kindness to Your Yoga Practice

Your yoga mat is the perfect place to nurture loving-kindness. Instead of forcing or critiquing, what if we moved with gratitude? Here’s how to weave Metta into your practice:

• Set an Intention: Before you begin, dedicate your movement and breath to love and kindness—whether for yourself, someone else, or the world at large.
• Move with Compassion: Listen to your body. Modify poses if needed and let go of any judgment about what your practice "should" look like.
• Open Your Heart: Heart-opening poses like Cobra, Camel, and Supported Fish help us release tension and invite in warmth.
• Try a Metta Meditation: As you rest in Savasana, repeat these phrases:
  May I be happy. May I be healthy. May I be safe. May I be at peace.
  May you be happy. May you be healthy. May you be safe. May you be at peace.

Loving-Kindness Off the Mat

Loving-kindness isn’t just for yoga—it’s a way of moving through life. Here are a few ways to carry it with you:

• Be kind to yourself. When your inner critic shows up, gently remind yourself that you’re doing your best.
• Spread small acts of kindness. A kind word, a moment of patience, or a thoughtful gesture can make a bigger impact than you realize.
• Expand your compassion. It’s easy to be kind to people we like. The challenge—and the growth—comes in extending that kindness to those who are difficult. (That doesn’t mean tolerating harm, just recognizing our shared humanity.)
• Pause before reacting. In moments of tension, take a breath. Can you respond with curiosity instead of frustration? Understanding instead of judgment?

A World Transformed by Love

This week, as we focus on loving kindness, let’s remember that even the smallest act of compassion makes a difference. Love isn’t passive—it’s a practice, a choice, and a force for healing.

Let’s move, breathe, and live with kindness. The world needs it, and so do we.

May we all be happy. May we all be healthy. May we all be safe. May we all be at peace.

Want to explore this practice in a supportive space? Join me for a yoga class, in-person or online: https://www.lauriecroft.com/schedule