Compassion is one of the most subtle yet profound feelings in the world.
This simple human emotion springs from love, and each of us is born with it.Whether you're smiling kindly at others or accepting yourself after a hard day, that’s a sign of compassion — deeply hidden in our hearts.
It is believed that compassion can increase our happiness, help us build loving relationships, and develop deeper connections with those around us.Research also lists other benefits like improved health and longevity, acting as an antidote to depression, making us less self-critical and more confident, as well as emotionally stable.
Sages even regard compassion as an essential feeling for spiritual progress.In the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, it is recommended to have compassion for sorrow in order to maintain a peaceful mind and stay in balance with oneself.In the Ashtavakra Gita, compassion is declared one of the five elixirs for attaining liberation.
You might wonder how being compassionate can help you live a better life.Studies show that stress is the main factor that makes compassion difficult to practice.
But don't worry — with the right perspective, you can develop the habit of being compassionate and enjoy a deeper way of living.
Compassion is not blaming someone and then saying, “Alright, I forgive you.”
That is not compassion.
Your forgiveness should be such that the person you're forgiving doesn’t even realize you’ve forgiven them.
They shouldn't feel guilty for their mistake.
That is the right kind of forgiveness.
~ Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
How to Cultivate Compassion?
1. Start with compassion for yourself
Always begin with yourself.If you're compassionate toward others but harsh on yourself, that won't make you a better person.
Studies show that the way we treat ourselves has a huge impact on how we treat others.So the first step to a better life is to be kind and gentle with yourself.
Start by letting go of guilt.
As Sri Sri Ravi Shankar says:
“Mistakes happen when we’re unaware — when we are in ignorance.”
Accept yourself, relax, and become aware.
With awareness, you can live in knowledge — and that will help you avoid repeating mistakes.
2. Relieve stress through yoga
Yoga is a time-tested, science-backed method for reducing stress.
Lowering stress boosts your energy and brings you back to your natural state — one filled with compassion and love.Research also shows that practicing any form of mindfulness, such as meditation, leads to even more compassion.So, don’t forget to include mindfulness in your yoga practice.
3. Give people space
We all come from different backgrounds, experiences, and emotional baggage.Whether you meet someone harsh or someone in need, remember — they might be victims of their own circumstances.
4. Practice random acts of kindness
Incorporate kind actions into your routine.A spontaneous smile or helping a coworker — try to consciously include these gestures in your day.
Eventually, they’ll become a habit.You can also reach out to people in need. Donate to a nonprofit or volunteer.
5. Be in the right company
We absorb the qualities of the people we surround ourselves with.
The company of wise and compassionate people naturally instills those values in us.So, make a conscious effort to be part of such company.
6. Know that you already have it
To cultivate any virtue, you need to accept that you already possess it.
When it comes to the power of compassion — you absolutely do.
Studies show that even children as young as two display altruistic behavior.
This proves you were born with a good heart.
Over time, you may have just stopped relying on this sacred inner tool.
But with a few practices and a shift in perspective, you can return to your innate state of compassion and love.
