Loving-kindness is a mindfulness practice that involves intentionally generating feelings of warmth, care, and compassion toward yourself and other people. Rooted in Buddhist tradition, it emphasizes treating all living things with care and kindness, regardless of circumstances.
The Loving-Kindness Practice handout technique is presented in easy-to-understand language and shares 5 ways to get started, including sitting comfortably and beginning with yourself. It also provides clients with encouraging phrases that promote self-forgiveness and a sense of contentment with who they are.
Regularly practicing this skill has been shown to boost positive emotions. Kids and teens may use the handout in a calm space — such as a therapy office, a peaceful corner at home, or even outdoors in nature.
They may pair it with activities like heart-focused breathing, playing soft background music, or journaling about their experiences after each loving-kindness session.
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References:
- Petrovic, J., Mettler, J., Cho, S., & Heath, N. L. (2024). The effects of loving-kindness interventions on positive and negative mental health outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 110, 102433. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2024.102433
- Zeng, X., Chiu, C. P., Wang, R., Oei, T. P., & Leung, F. Y. (2015). The effect of loving-kindness meditation on positive emotions: A meta-analytic review. Frontiers in Psychology, 6, 166971. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01693
- Kim, J., Kwon, J. H., Kim, J., Kim, E. J., Kim, H. E., Kyeong, S., & Kim, J. (2021). The effects of positive or negative self-talk on the alteration of brain functional connectivity by performing cognitive tasks. Scientific Reports, 11, 14873. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-94328-9
