The earthquake in Japan may feel like a hazy nightmare to us in the U.S. at this point, but as we know, the consequences are far from over. I’m finding my meditation is often focused there. Several practices address the terror and sadness I feel, the “what if…?” Here’s a run-down of my typical session, which can take any amount of time…
1. I start with loving kindness and compassion—directing them towards Japan and whatever else moves me. Sometimes it’s towards the fish in the ocean near the reactor or the families of the victims of the tsunami. I trust my creativity and follow where my heart is drawn. I use the dreadful images I saw on the news to cultivate compassion. I bring to mind an image and sense its impact on me and then offer compassion as I breathe out—May you be free from suffering, may you be safe and protected. May you be healthy.
2. Sometimes that practice leads to gratitude. Spontaneous gratitude often arises for the plant workers who were willing to go in to try to contain the radiation. These are truly heroic individuals. I might silently
3. As I do…
