A meditation for the Heart

This is a short, Traditional Chinese Medicine-inspired, meditation following the energy channels of the Heart and Small Intestine. You might find it soothing, relaxing and joyful.

Start by finding a comfortable position in which to practise and allow yourself to settle. Invite your breathing to be natural and spontaneous.

Once your breathing has relaxed into its own natural rhythm, begin to draw your awareness to the space of your Heart. Let your awareness rest there for a few breaths.

As you exhale, visualise your breathing travelling down from your Heart along the insides of your arms to your little fingers; as you inhale, visualise your breath travelling up along the outsides of your arms to the backs of your shoulders and then diving back into your Heart.

Repeat this visualisation as many times as you would like, bringing your awareness back to your Heart space at the end of each round.

Next, let your awareness rest at your Heart for both your inhales and exhales. Breathing in, allow your Heart to be open to receive the joyful gift of each moment; breathing out, let your Heart be softened by that joy. Continue for a few more rounds, letting this gentle practice massage your Heart.

Stay in your practice for as long as you would like or need. Give yourself time to move and adjust before returning to your day.

Remember to follow any medical advice before beginning a new practice and only practise within your limits. If you experience any undesired effects, please consult with a medical practitioner.