Taking heart in hard times

Let’s face it, we’ve all gone through a lot in the past 2 years.

In addition to the seemingly never-ending pandemic, and ever changing public health guidelines, there have been other events going on in the world (the most recent being the heartbreaking Russian invasion of Ukraine) that are just bound to have an impact on us.

Never mind if we’ve also been dealing with events in our personal lives. Now add to that, the heaviness that can come with the work we do.

When you really pause and think about it, it’s not at all surprising that we’re likely feeling a whole host of feelings related to our current reality. And that’s okay.

Perhaps now, more than ever, it’s important for us to pause, acknowledge the feelings that are within us, and add a compassionate voice that recognizes that we are not alone, that whatever we’re feeling is okay, and that we deserve the same kindness and compassion that we extend to others. Whether that comes from within or from our willingness to accept support from others.

Dr. Rick Hanson takes the perspective that it 'takes heart' to live in ordinary times, never mind challenging times. Consistent with this, he’s developed the 'take heart' practice, which emphasizes the importance of connecting with our heart; finding encouragement in the goodness that exists both within and outside ourselves; resting in that warmth, compassion, and kindness within ourselves and also from others; and being courageous, whole-hearted, and strong-hearted. We couldn’t agree more.

Read more about the 'take heart' practice here.