How sweet our thoughts are as they turn to Valentines Day. It may even bring a smile to our face and a softening of attitudes and actions.
With that in mind here is a meditation to open our heart wider to the presence of the Divine, kept sacred within us, vibrantly inspiring our best acts in the world.
Begin by arranging your altar: lay out a fresh cloth and place a candle in the center. Light the candle and burn some incense if you wish. Place flowers alongside the incense for reminders of the beauty within.
Sit up straight in front of your altar, either cross-legged on a cushion on the floor, or straight in a chair with soles of feet firmly planted on the floor for balance. Fold your hands in your lap or place them palms up or palms down on your thighs.
Close your eyes and breathe evenly at a normal rate like this: breathe in one count, breathe out one count, breathe in one count and continue this rhythm through out the meditation without actually counting out loud or mentally.
Say a prayer of thanksgiving for all you have. Your shelter, food, family, friends. After all, these are the essentials that provide the backup you need to go out and live productively in the world.
In celebration of Valentines Day send loving thoughts to the dearest person in your life or a dear pet. Really feel that caring connection. Bask in the warmth of these feelings for a minute or more.
Observe your breath, how it becomes calm and peaceful when your thoughts are caring and warm toward those beyond yourself. Enjoy these moments of calm.
Draw in a deep breath and slowly release it. Open your eyes, stretch out and write any new insights that have come to you in your meditation journal for later review.
Go on with your day, lightheartedly and with care and love in your heart and actions.
For offline reading
Meditation Lessons for Teens and AdultsMore than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.
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Meditation for all KidsSitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.
Meditation by Susan Helene Kramer; photo credit of flowers in dunes, Castricum, The Netherland by Stan Schaap
