Metta is one of the oldest Buddhist practices that lives on to this day. It is defined by Access to Insight as “Essentially metta is an altruistic attitude of love and friendliness as distinguished from mere amiability based on self-interest. Through metta one refuses to be offensive and renounces bitterness, resentment and animosity of every kind, developing instead a mind of friendliness, accommodative-ness and benevolence which seeks the well-being and happiness of others.”
This form of meditation is basically having a more positive outlook in life and denouncing selfishness and self-interests. Putting others’ happiness above your own and caring for them in ways a mother would. The world today is menacing and filled with negative energy; practicing Metta can not only uplift your mood, but lighten your surroundings as well. The thing with this form of meditation is that it doesn’t require you to sit on the floor and say “ohm” repeatedly. All you have to do is show it in your actions in your daily life.
Adopting this as your practice can do you wonders and help you create a healthier and freer space along with a healthy state of mind. Other benefits to Metta are the following:
It comes with a lot of happiness.
A little positivity comes a long way. In the case of Metta,it requires a lot of optimism andcan bring joy and love not only to others, but to yourself as well. There is a small feeling of reward whenever we see another smile because of us. This can fill you up with a bunch of revitalized energy to help you get through the rough patches of your day.
Equips you with a great sense of sensitivity.
One of the perks you can get with this meditation is actually learning to work your way around a person’s emotions. The moment you prioritized other’s joy over yours, you are already preparing yourself to build care towards them. Part of caring is choosing your words and actions carefully so as not to hurt their feelings.
It allows you to learn self-love.
Ironic as it may sound, it isn’t. One of the problems people face is getting crazy over romantic relationships. Infatuation can easily come and can kill the hopeless romantic inside of us. Metta can teach us that there is more to life like platonic love and self-love. By giving space in your heart for these, you are allowing yourself to love all that you are.
You can make the world a better place.
Just as stated before, the world has grown more vile and vicious nowadays. There is the constant search for power and money and many are willing to do whatever it takes to attain these. This meditation can help channel the true and peaceful beings within us and let it flow out into the world.
