Cultivating Kindness & Friendliness
Loving-Kindness
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This MINDFULGym tool is for cultivating kindness and related positive feelings (e.g. friendliness, gentleness, compassion) towards ourselves and others.
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The word 'Loving-Kindness' is used here to refer to these interrelated positive feelings. As these are positive feelings, they buffer stress, promotes well-being and improves interpersonal relationships.
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Conceptually, 'Loving-Kindness' is similar to the practice of 'Muhibbah' (a Malay word which means 'goodwill'). It has been shown in scientific studies that Loving-Kindness practice increases friendliness, empathy, and compassion; important qualities for the nursing profession.
Rasa Sayang Hey!
How to practice Loving-Kindness?
Step 1
Sit or lie in a comfortable position and hug a pillow to feel safe and relax.
If you're moving around (e.g. walking in the hospital), imagine you're hugging a pillow and remember to smile
STEP 2
Take a few slow, deep, and mindful breaths.
Refer to 'Mindful Breathing' if you've forgotten how to take a mindful breath
STEP 3
Sing the 'Rasa Sayang' folk song aloud or in your heart with the following modified lyrics:
Rasa sayang, hey!
Rasa sayang sayang, hey!
Hey, may I, may YOU, may ALL,
Be happy, Happy, HAPPY
(English)
Rasa sayang, hey!
Rasa sayang sayang, hey!
Hey, saya ucapkan sihat,
Selamat SEJAHTERA
(Malay)
STEP 4
Try to think of someone who needs care (e.g. your patient, child, grandmother, or yourself).
STEP 5
Mentally wish them safe, healthy, and happy
Examples:
"Mr. Wong. I wish you a speedy recovery"
"Anand, all the best in your exam"
"Grandma, I wish you long life and happiness"
"Hi Myself. I wish you success and happiness
Repeat step 3-5 for as long as you wish
May I, may you, may all be
happy, Happy, HAPPY
Saya ucapkan sihat, Selamat, SEJAHTERA...
May my colleagues be stress free | May you be free from fear & worries | May the doctors be successful | May you be able to walk freely |
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May you have a speedy recovery | May you have a safe pregnancy | May you live long, healthy & happy | May you learn well & be happy |
Don't forget to wish yourself happy
Nurses dispense comfort, compassion, and caring without even a prescription.