Accepting Quote by Pema Chodron
“In tonglen practice, when we see or feel suffering, we breathe in with the notion of completely feeling it, accepting it, and owning it. Then we breathe out, radiating compassion, lovingkindness, freshness - anything that encourages relaxation and openness. So you're training in softening, rather than tightening, your heart. In this practice, it's not uncommon to find yourself blocked, because you come face to face with your own fear, resistance, or whatever your personal "stuckness" happens to be at that moment.”
About This Quote
Source Teaching guide: “The Art of Compassion” by Pema Chodron, 2018
Tonglen invites us to breathe in suffering, accept it, then breathe out compassion, turning personal fear into openness.
In simple terms: Breathe in pain, breathe out love, softening the heart.
Key Takeaway
Practice breathing in pain and breathing out compassion.
Themes
compassion
mindfulness
emotional resilience
spiritual practice
healing
Mood
calm
hopeful
cautious
Type
instructional
spiritual
therapeutic
When to use this quote
- meditation
- counseling
- stress management
- personal growth
Key Concepts
tonglen
acceptance
heart‑softening
Questions to Reflect On
- What fear arises when you face your own suffering?
- How can you safely practice compassion when feeling stuck?
A Different Perspective
The method can be overwhelming for those with severe trauma; professional support may be needed.
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