Kindness expands the light within us and reaches out to touch the light in others as well, giving us all a glimpse of the glow that has the power to enlighten our world.
Anonymous
Welcome back to our Co-Creative Mandalas blog!
Each month, we share insights, inspiration, and all the ways the cycles of the Great Mandala uplift and support you. We draw upon the metaphors and messages of each season to explore and celebrate our individual and collective journeys toward Freedom.
The Co-Creative Mandalas have a vibration that represents something about the natural world and the energy in the universe at this current time.
This month's mandala is Kindness
Welcome to the Heart of Fall!
The changing seasons have long been associated with profound shifts in energies and moods. As autumn unfolds and darkness descends earlier, we find ourselves seeking warmth and connection. October, nestled in the heart of fall, serves as a transition between the light-filled summer and the introspective winter. These cycles, marked by the solstices and equinoxes, offer us an opportunity to connect with nature and reflect on the ever-changing nature of life itself.
In just a few days, on Halloween, we'll reach the half-way point between fall equinox and winter solstice when, according to different cultures and ancient traditions, the veil between the seen and the unseen worlds is more transparent allowing for greater spiritual connection and insight. The time leading up to, on, and a few days beyond Halloween invites us to embrace our own sense of wonder and magic. It encourages us to explore the realms beyond the ordinary, where anything is possible. This is the perfect time to reflect on our actions and make a conscious effort to bring kindness to the forefront.
Kindness is a natural instinct, a way we connect with one
another, a response of an open heart, and like a muscle, with practice, our kindness instinct becomes stronger.
Currently, many people are experiencing a world full of chaos and disorder. Individually and collectively we're facing profound challenges, testing our resilience and perseverance as a global community. Out of these shared experiences, something beautiful is growing — our impulse to be kind to one another. In a world that can sometimes feel cold and disconnected, acts of kindness hold the power to warm hearts, bridge gaps, and build lasting connections. There couldn't be a more perfect time to focus our energy and intentions on kindness.
As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, October serves as a reminder to choose the magic and wonder of kindness. We have an opportunity to amplify our acts of kindness toward ourselves and others and spread joy to those around us--near and far. Whether it's volunteering at a local non-profit or reaching out to a friend in need, let's make commitment to cultivating kindness and spreading love.
Maybe we can’t change everything wrong with the world by being kind, but we can change the worlds of the people around us. Who knows what those people might accomplish once they experience the power of kindness.
A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees.
Amelia Earhart
We know that kindness is a powerful force that has the ability to transform lives and bring joy to both the giver and receiver. It's simple acts that hold within it a great deal of magic and wonder.
Through understanding and embracing kindness, we can open our hearts to love and create a positive impact on those around us and on the world. At its core, the heart of kindness is based in love, connection, authenticity, generosity, compassion, and a genuine willingness to make a positive impact on the lives of those around us in both big and small ways.
I believe we're kind beings by nature, driven by an innate desire to alleviate suffering and promote well-being. Our capacity to extend kindness to others, whether in human or non-human form, is a testament to the interconnectedness that binds us all.
Kindness is not something we need to force or acquire; it
already resides within us, waiting to be awakened and
expressed.
Kindness changes everything!
To truly experience the wonder of kindness, it's important to intentionally integrate kindness rituals into our daily lives. These rituals can be as simple as expressing gratitude, sending loving-kindness to others, or performing random or intentional of acts of kindness. By consciously engaging in these acts, we create a ripple effect of love, generosity, connection, and compassion that not only benefits others but also nurtures our own well-being.
Serving our communities, supporting charitable causes, or
simply lending a listening ear can uplift not only those we assist but also our own spirits. Kindness is present in the simple choices we make, the intentions we set, and the way we treat ourselves and others. By nurturing our innate kindness and allowing it to guide our actions, we not only bring joy and well-being to those around us but also find a profound sense of fulfillment and contentment within ourselves.
Kind gestures don't need to be grand; they can be as simple as holding the door for someone. Even small acts of kindness can illuminate the darkest corners and create a world filled with love and compassion. I am inspired by this Cincinnati man who has set out to bring 143 acts of kindness to his community.
Kindness is closely linked to the power of love. When we choose to be kind, we open our hearts to love and invite it to flow freely within and around us. Love has the power to heal, inspire, and connect us on a deep level. Through acts of kindness, we tap into this transformative energy and create a positive impact on our own lives and the lives of others.
We know being kind is nice for others, but did you know it
boosts your own well-being, too? Research shows that kindness increases satisfaction, decreases pain, and even affects your health for the better. Just a few kind acts a week can reduce stress, and can help you live a longer, happier life.
Kindness is your soul choosing to add a balm, rather than a fuel, to the realm of suffering.
Alana Fairchild
At any time, we can make the choice to act from the best place within ourselves. As you know, the energy of kindness flows both ways. To the one giving the kindness and the one receiving so that ultimately both people are receivers and givers, indistinguishable..
That’s the magic and wonder of kindness.
You might also consider incorporating "Metta", loving-kindness meditation into your daily kindness rituals. This practice extends kindness to you, your loved ones, people you might have difficulty with, and to the world. I've found it to be particularly comforting when I watch the news.
In one study research shows that people who consistently incorporate this evidence based practice experienced positive results. These impacts include improved emotions, life satisfaction, self-compassion, interpersonal interactions, and self-reassurance.
To practice kindness toward all is to remember the natural interplay between darkness and light, the fragility of life circumstances, and the possibility of accessing a hidden wholeness.
Sharon Salzburg
While giving kindness brings great satisfaction, it's equally important to be open to receiving kindness from ourselves and others. Have you heard the saying, "Be your own best friend?" I believe there’s a lot of wisdom behind those words!
It’s always good to be kind and to support ourselves on every level -- mind, body, and spirit.
Just the simple gesture of placing your hand on your heart and saying to yourself, “I am here for you” is a great act of kindness and allows the unexpected joys of life to be felt when you least expect them.
By being kind to ourselves and receiving kindness from
others--with gratitude and appreciation, we allow ourselves and others to experience the joy of giving.
In my journey of exploring kindness, I’ve come to realize that it often reveals itself in the simplest, most unexpected moments in everyday life. It’s during those unassuming instances that the true essence of the magic and wonder of kindness shines through, reminding us of our inherent compassion as human beings.
Take, for example, the time when I took a wrong exit door at an unfamiliar airport and found myself lost. On most days I would be unperturbed by such a annoying and mundane experience. That day, I was preoccupied with an urgency to see my dad, who had recently been admitted to the hospital. There I stood, surrounded by my baggage (a metaphor?), not knowing which direction to go--no sign posts to guide me. I closed my eyes, tears streaming down my face, feeling the weight of the moment. When I opened my eyes, a kind looking, elderly man appeared in front of me. Literally, he just appeared, seemingly out of thin air. His soothing voice asked "Can I help you"? I immediately relaxed, welcoming his kind words of support as he pointed me in the right direction. I thanked him, turned to
gather my luggage, and just as quickly he disappeared. His was a small act, that had a huge impact. It speaks volumes about our innate capacity for kindness and the responsibility we feel towards each other.
However, many of us struggle with receiving kindness due to various barriers we may have constructed and beliefs we hold on to. Let's explore these barriers and find ways to overcome them.
One common barrier to receiving kindness is a sense of
unworthiness. We may feel that we don't deserve kindness or that we are not worthy of love and care. This self-limiting belief can prevent us from fully experiencing the wonder of kindness in our lives. To break down this barrier, it is important to cultivate self-compassion and practice self-love. By recognizing our own worthiness, we open ourselves to receive kindness with an open heart.
Another barrier to receiving kindness is a fear of vulnerability. We may have built walls around ourselves to keep us safe and protect us from hurt and disappointment. However, in doing so, we also shield ourselves from the love and kindness that others have to offer. And, that we can offer to ourselves. To overcome this barrier, it is essential to acknowledge and honor vulnerability, see it as a strength, and trust in our goodness and the goodness of others. By allowing ourselves to be seen and accepting help when it's offered, we create opportunities for kindness to enter our lives.
If you hear yourself being mean to your sweet self, stop. Replace it with kindness. Watch the effect. You flower.
Geneen Roth
One powerful tool that can help us overcome barriers to receiving kindness is EFT-Tapping, It's a simple yet effective way to clear blocks in our energy system, shift our mindset, and allow kindness to flow into our lives. Contact me if you'd like more information.
Kindness holds within it beautiful magic and wonder. By
practicing kindness rituals, opening our hearts to love, and
overcoming barriers to receiving kindness, we can experience the transformative power of kindness.
This Co-Creative Mandala, "Kindness" from a photo of marigolds (symbolizes grace), zinnias (symbolizes love), and purple statice (symbolizes wonder) is associated with the sacral, solar plexus, heart, and crown chakras. It reminds us that every impulse in the universe moves in the direction of love. When you open your heart to love instead of closing it in fear you offer service to the world and live your life purpose.
Kindness is the language of my heart. My thoughts, words, and actions bless me and all those along my path.
Kindness Exercise:
Intention:
The real power of the exercise is the intention you place behind it. Start your day with gratitude and by setting the intention that you are dedicating time for self-care, to allowing Kindness and awakening to Freedom. Create a space in your experience into which a spirit of Kindness can emerge.
Why choose Kindness? I read recently that the morning affirmation, the question we can ask ourselves before we get out of bed is "How can I be kind today"? has a far-reaching impact. That simple question reminds us that we can make the world a better place one small act of kindness at a time. Not only do we feel the warmth that comes from helping ourselves, each other, and the world, we make our homes, communities, the planet better when we extend kindness.
The seasonal cycles play a significant role in our daily lives, influencing our moods, energy levels, and overall well-being. By aligning ourselves with the natural rhythms of the Great Mandala, we can enhance our sense of connection. This time of year marks a time of access to the power of the unseen world. This is the perfect time to reflect on our actions and make a conscious effort to bring kindness to the forefront.
The Kindness Exercise:
Allow yourself plenty of time to complete this exercise. You can use this exercise throughout the day and the weeks and months ahead. Remember, as you co-create this exercise, be gentle with yourself as you discover what nurtures and sustains you.
Before you begin the exercise:
There are two parts to this exercise. You'll need paper, pen, pencil, color crayons, colored pencils, and/or a journal. I invite you to write, draw, color, and/or create music that reflects your experiences as you complete each step.
Preparation: Invest time toward moving into stillness.
Create your sacred space. Light a candle. Create an altar that contains items that bring you joy, delight, and peace. Include items that reflect the season--fall leaves, colorful flowers, gourds. Take a few deep breaths to ground & center.
When you are ready, invite any subtle colleagues, allies, your guides and helpers to join you in your sacred space. Wait a moment for that connection and alliance to form.
Part 1: Power of Mandala Meditation
Incorporating mandala meditation into your routine can greatly support your journey towards Kindness. Mandalas are sacred geometric patterns that can help focus the mind, induce a sense of calm, and unlock deeper levels of self-awareness.
Step 1: Sit comfortably, read and reflect on the Kindness mandala description and message. Let your gaze fall gently on the mandala. Take a few moments to observe its intricate details and patterns. Then, gently close your eyes and bring the image to your mind's eye. As you visualize the mandala, allow your attention to rest on each shape and color, observing, without judgment, any thoughts, emotions, or sensations that arise. Use your breath as an anchor, returning to it whenever you find yourself getting distracted.
Step 2: Ask yourself: What message does the mandala have for me? What does it want me to know? How can I incorporate Kindness into the mandala of my life?
Continue this practice for at least 10 minutes, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable.
Step 3: Journal about any thoughts, feelings, or insights you have.
Through regular mandala meditation, you will cultivate a sense of inner harmony, clarity, and tranquility.
Part 2: Cultivating Kindness
Step 1 - Gratitude Practice
Expressing gratitude is a powerful way to invite kindness into our lives. Take a few moments to reflect on the blessings and abundance that have come your way so far this year. Write down at least five things you're grateful for, whether it's the support of loved ones, the beauty of nature, or the opportunities you've been given.
Step 2 - Five Kind Things
Try doing 5 kind things for yourself and other people—all in one day. It doesn’t matter if what you do is big or small, and more variety can make this exercise more impactful.
Your kind acts can be for different people, and people don't need to know about them. For example you could:
--smile and offer an unexpected compliment to someone
--pick up litter that you did not drop
--help a friend with a chore
--provide a meal to a person in need
--practice loving-kindness meditation
Remember to choose kindness for yourself, too. Simple acts of kindness could include:
--taking a walk
--doing the CPR breathing exercise (in breath, say "I am"...out breath say "Calm"; in breath say "I am"...out breath say "Peaceful"; in breath, say "I am"...out breath say "Relaxed")
--asking yourself..."What is the kindest thing I can do for myself right now", listen, then do it.
After each kindness, write down what you did in a few sentences, and how the experience made you feel.
Let's embrace spreading love and kindness, and create a ripple effect of positivity that extends within, to our communities, and to the world.
May you know the magic and wonder of kindness today and everyday.
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