Commuting with Compassion: A Driving Meditation

Statistics show that the vast majority of Americans start their day by commuting an average of 10 miles to work. If you’re one of those people, have you ever noticed how the tensions involved in this wordless, frenetic migration have the ability to influence the emotional tone of the rest of your day?

Consider trying this simple driving meditation as a way to get ahead of stress and get set up for a happy and productive day.

As you watch cars moving around you, imagine the other drivers are your friends, or members of your family: your sister or brother, mother or father, kids or grandparents.

Imagine wishing them well on their journey, wherever it takes them. In that vein, consider allowing these friends and relatives the space to move in front of you if they want. Smile at them as they do. Wish them well in your heart as they pass.

Try to imagine where each person might be going. If they happen to be driving unconsciously and frantically, offer them kindness and compassion rather than scorn. We’ll all been in a rush at one time or another. It’s no fun. They’re suffering. Wish that your kindness may wake them up, bring them a bit of mindfulness and peace.

Your offering of peace and kindness not only helps them, it will help you as well. Happy commuting!

Find out about upcoming programs with Mark Pirtle at Kripalu.

This article was originally published on Mark's website, skillfullyaware.com.