In this heart-centered meditation, I gently guide you to settle into your body, find your place, and rest in the simple rhythm of your breath. As attention gathers in the chest, you explore a steady concentration on breathing in the heart area—then gradually infuse it with warm-heartedness, kindness, and loving presence. The practice invites you to soften, receive the breath rather than chase it, and let a natural sweetness spread through awareness as you rest in a concentrated, heart-based lovingness.

You’re welcome to join me live each week for these meditations — free for everyone — by signing up at https://rickhanson.com/wednesday-meditations-with-dr-rick-hanson/. We always start with a guided meditation to set the tone for the evening. If you’d like to explore the talk that followed this meditation, you can listen to it here: https://rickhanson.com/talk-meditation-empathy-and-engaged-compassion/