We are happy to share two new practices from Alan Wallace focused on the development of benevolent states of mind, which you will find under the title A Boundless Heart.
The word for loving-kindness in Sanskrit is maitri, or metta in Pali, which is related to the word for a “friend”. A prosaic translation for this word is simply “friendliness”. In English, friendliness describes a mode of behavior—a friendly way of behaving. That’s certainly a component of the meaning intended in the new practices, but loving-kindness is primarily a quality of the mind, although of course, it expresses itself in behavior.
In these practices loving-kindness is directed towards oneself is a preamble to cultivating loving-kindness for all beings. There are good reasons for beginning this practice with ourselves. Nowadays when we are stressed or having low self-esteem, the constant stream of surface thoughts may be strongly negative. This prevents getting in touch with a deeper feeling of wholeness. To get in touch with the deeper peace and love inside oneself leads to a more profound understanding and appreciation of our interconnected nature.
Do not hesitate to contact us if you need advice in your meditation practice or in any other topic related to the app.