Kindness

The world needs kindness. Think about it, hopefully you can remember little instances when people were gracious, patient with you, or took a moment to ask you how you were doing. Of course, as humans, we also remember times when others hurt us, shamed us or made us feel inadequate. Choosing to focus on positive interaction can be a real challenge at times, but it can do so much to shape our outlook and improve the lives of others.

I talk about "lovingkindness" in yoga classes because it is such a powerful tool for feeling better and more contented with ourselves. When we feel content and confident and loved, we approach all of our interactions in a softer and more generous way. When we fall or feel wobbly in a yoga pose, we can choose to react with irritation and embarrassment, or we can giggle, or simply start over. Recognizing that all of us feel a bit wobbly and uncertain once in awhile helps us relate to ourselves and others with a bit more softness and compassion.

Our world needs love. Our world needs kindness. Use what you experience on the mat to help you be a loving presence for others. It doesn't need to be dramatic; calling someone by name,  helping someone feel comfortable or welcome, waving and smiling at someone as you allow them to merge in front of you in traffic...  all of these are small acts that have a big impact. Spread some kindness. You will feel great and so will those around you.