*|MC_PREVIEW_TEXT|*

Compassionate Commute This week’s trek is inspired by the concept of Metta, which can be found in Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions. Most popularly translated as "loving kindness," Metta has become a staple in many mindfulness practices.  Do you feel crushed after your commute? Whether you are trying to muscle your way through a jam-packed subway car or a road-rage filled highway, the daily commute can be a grind that produces feelings of anxiety and frustration towards others. When we refocus our attention on developing feelings of goodwill and compassion towards others, though, we can make the commute work for rather than against us. Introducing Your Compassionate Commute Exercise What It Is A way to rework the energy of your commute. Why We Love It  Commutes can leave us feeling super cranky but they don't have to. By putting a different kind of energy out into the world, we can make our commute an opportunity to re-center ourselves. How It Works 1. As you head out for your daily commute, bring your attention to yourself and repeat a mantra (3-5 times usually works!) that offers up a little self love. Consider phrases like: - May I arrive safely and at ease. - May I be happy and at peace. 2. Next, take note of your surroundings. Is the school bus in the nearby lane filled with chatty kids? Does the guy sitting next to you have an awesome dog? Is the car behind you following a little too close? 3. Select one of the things you've noted -- the bustling school bus, the awesome dog, the tailgater -- and choose a mantra to send those people/animals some loving kindness. Consider phrases like: - May they (i.e., the kids) be happy. May they be safe and free from injury. - May you (i.e., dog walker) be at peace. May you (i.e., dog) feel safe and loved. - May you (i.e., tailgater) be free of anger and anxiety.  4. Once you have arrived at your destination, take note of how you feel. What new things did you notice about your daily commute? What new feelings did you experience? How might you create space for more compassion for yourself and others? Want to dig deeper into this topic? If you are feeling skeptical about this whole loving kindness thing, watch this video featuring Sharon Salzberg and a skeptic. To learn more about Metta meditation, read this from Tricycle. For an overview of the benefits associated with doing loving kindness meditation, read this. Shout. It. Out. To Angel Hu for her exercise crafting skills! Shout. It. Back. To treks@lifetrekkers.me if you have feedback on this trek or other treks you have liked. Here's what your fellow trekkers have to say about past treks:   "Last week's creative recovery exercise was one of my favorites. This exercise helped me push past my creative blocks. I love using it to clear my mind and reflect by rereading it at the end of the week." - Dama Dipayana, Founder Be Frank Tweet Tweet Email Us Learn More Copyright © 2018 LifeTrekkers, All rights reserved. Want more information? Drop us a line at info@lifetrekkers.me. Want to change how you receive these emails? You can unsubscribe from this list.