Kindness towards all

Metta Bhavana is a Buddhist practice that promotes kindness and equanimity in individuals. Positive psychology, which differs from traditional psychology by tapping into a person's potential rather than asking what is wrong with them, has adopted this practice as an intervention. A person sits in a calm environment and sends a warm prayer to his friends, family and everyone in general, including those who may not be in a comfortable relationship with him. Messages of health, well-being and safety are reiterated, addressing target groups in a calm, meditative manner, and, finally, including oneself. When practised with sincerity of purpose, the gentle vibrations reach the person and cleanse the practitioner's mind.

Practising loving-kindness meditation promotes one's overall well-being and significantly reduces stress. Key areas of the brain are activated, positive emotions are naturally generated, and the person begins to view things from a better perspective and develops resilience to bear upsets and shortcomings in life. In a world fraught with hatred and war, a niche group of people generating positive vibrations towards everyone may certainly make some difference. It is like wishing 'sarve bhavantu sukhinah, sarve santu niraamayah, sarve bhadraani pashyantu, maa kaschid dukha-bhag-bhavet' - may all be happy, free from illness, witness auspicious moments, not suffer. Let's join in.