Compassion Practice for Troubling Times

Taking in the news can be perilous. When we hear of tragic events – bombings, earthquakes, shootings – it’s easy to become overwhelmed with difficult emotions like sadness, grief, fear, rage. Feeling powerless in the face of these heartbreaking disasters, we often don’t know what to do. What CAN we do?

Firstly, taking any action to support those who are suffering will help. Action is the antidote to despair (Joan Baez). Action helps those in need and it helps you. Volunteer, donate, call elected officials, or simply practice kindness to a stranger.

But we can also work in a more subtle way by actively practicing compassion.

We can call upon compassion in any situation where we encounter suffering, including our own suffering. Sharon Salzberg in her book, Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness, calls compassion,

“… the strength that arises out of seeing the true nature of suffering in the world. It allows us to bear witness to that suffering … without fear; it allows us to name injustice without hesitation, and to act strongly, with all the skill at our disposal. To develop this mind state of compassion … is to learn to live, as the Buddha put it, with sympathy for all living beings, without exception.

In this workshop we’ll discuss:

·      the three factors that make up compassion

·      it’s near and far enemies

·      self-care for troubling times

·      and we’ll practice a body-centered compassion meditation

We’ll also take time to support each other through social connection and sharing food (at the end of our session). If you are inclined, bring a snack to share (this is not an obligation, just an option). We’ll hang out together!

Saturday, November 18, 10:00am-12:00pm                Please click HERE to RSVP 

Summit Presbyterian Church                                   

6757 Greene St, Philadelphia, PA 19119

Suggested Dana: $10 - $40

Facilitated by Michelle Stortz

Michelle Stortz is a certified yoga therapist (C-IAYT) specializing in yoga for cancer and chronic illness. Since 2010, she has worked with hundreds of cancer survivors in the Philadelphia area. Michelle also teaches meditation, drawing on both the Buddhist tradition and the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction curriculum. She offers classes, courses, retreats, and private sessions. www.MichelleStortz.com