The word compassion originates from the Latin word compati which means to suffer with. Researchers define it as the feelings that we experience when confronted with another being suffering and the motivation to relieve it. Having compassion for all beings makes us finer human beings and gives us the opportunity to build more meaningful connections with others in life. Simply, compassion helps others and makes us experience happiness.
Compassion is an ability which can be learned by taking on the perspective of another being's endurance. When we show an emotional response and demonstrate the desire to help to relieve suffering we feel empowered by making a positive impact on another being's life.
The gesture of compassion can be expressed verbally and through open body language. We express receptiveness by maintaining eye contact, active listening, confirming understanding and communicating a positive attitude and kindness with the right words. Compassion is an ability which can be learned by taking on the perspective of another being's endurance. When we show an emotional response and demonstrate the desire to help to relieve suffering we feel empowered by making a positive impact on another being's life.
Compassion is not the same as empathy and sympathy. Empathy is one's ability to perceive feelings of others - feeling for someone and being concerned for some one's well-being. The feeling of empathy naturally leads to a compassionate response. Empathy is often confused with sympathy - feeling sorry for someone.
One can practice compassion in many ways. Embrace compassion and enjoy more meaning and satisfaction in your life while adding more quality to some ones eases.
How to practice Compassion
Use kind words in a soft tone
Listen carefully and remain open-minded
Be sensitive to others feelings
Be supportive, helpful and respectful
Offer your comfort and help to others
Encourage others
Be generous with your heart & money
Practice tolerance and acceptance
Be sincerely happy for someone else
Forgive others their mistakes
Don't be judgmental
Practice mindfulness
According to newer research, cultivating compassion and kindness through meditation does affect specific brain regions that can make a person more sensitive to other peoples' mental states.
¨If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.¨
Dalai Lama
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