Practicing Tonglen To Feel Happier

Me getting my "ohm" on in Oahu. 

Today I visited one of my favorite places—the library—and picked up a book called Tranquilista by Kimberly Wilson, the author of Hip Tranquil Chick. It's a manual for doing "enlightened work" and practicing "mindful play," so that you can rid yourself of harmful habits and start living a more fulfilling life.

In it I found a section on practicing Tonglen ("Go Totally Tonglen," page 13), a Buddhist practice that's easy to do throughout your entire day.

Picture this: There's a crying baby on your airplane. Or a disgruntled businessman behind you in line at the bank. Maybe your mom is giving you a hard time about a recent career move. Close your eyes and picture yourself breathing in their pain. Visualize their suffering as a big, dark cloud. Draw that cloud in, then exhale slowly, picturing yourself sending them a big cloud of compassion.

So basically, you aren't absorbing their pain, but changing it into love and compassion. I know, I know...sounds funny, but think about how much better you'll feel trying to send that person love rather than getting yourself all upset about their behavior. I need to try this next time I get an annoying email!

What other rituals or practices should I try out? I need more of this! Leave a comment below.