Why Compassion Is So Magical

There’s a lot of buzz around the word “compassion” these days.

Have you noticed it, too?

“Show compassion for others.”

“Have compassion in your heart.”

“What the world needs right now is more compassion.”

I even came across a quote by Dostoyevsky in an article recently that said, “Compassion is the chief law of human existence.”

So I looked up the word ‘compassion’. Wanna know what I found?

“Compassion is one’s emotional response to suffering or unhappiness in another, and an authentic desire to help alleviate that suffering.”

So compassion is certainly something to be admired and appreciated. What are the real benefits? My OCD side kicked in and I did some more research.

Ready for the results?

I found that when we connect with others in meaningful ways we feel better and accelerate our own recovery from illness and disease.

Then I came across Stephanie Brown’s (Stony Brook University) and Sara Konrath’s (University of Michigan) research which shows that having compassion for others may even prolong our lives…and theirs.

Other studies I found show that, when we feel more connected to others, our anxiety and depression dissolve, our self-esteem soars and our heart opens.

And you know what’s remarkable? People begin to trust us more and clamor to be with us.

As a Holistic Reflexologist and Inspired Life Coach I have dedicated my life to helping people live joyous, fulfilled lives by first taking care of themselves physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

And what’s amazing is that, in the process of supporting my clients, I feel blissful, too.

I hadn’t thought of my work in terms of compassion before. As I considered it, the truth is that some of the steps my clients take with me do propel them toward more compassionate, connected lives.

Shall I share these steps with you?

Find peace within yourself first. Do what you love. Pursue your passion in life. Feel great about yourself. Then, from your own deep sense of joy and fulfillment, you are primed to give generously of yourself to others.

Be present. Our ability to focus on one person or thing at a time – to be present – is the bedrock skill for real compassion. People feel closer to you when they sense that you are being authentic with them.

Share your heart. Sharing ourselves is compassion in action. However you share, do it with love, honesty and passion. Be a powerful blessing to your family, friends and community.

“As we work to create light for others, we naturally
light our own way.” – Mary Anne Radmacher

Imagine taking these steps now, being more compassionate with yourself and others in your life. You’re confident that these steps are working because you’re feeling contentment, enjoying deeper, more meaningful relationships and basking in a glorious sense of well-being.

In other words, you are happy.

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.
If you want to be happy, practice compassion.”
– The Dalai Lama

P.S. If your passion is for helping others, consider becoming a Reflexologist. Practicing reflexology is a powerful way to give your compassion a voice and a purpose that your clients will cherish.

Laura Norman, M.S., LMT, world-renowned Holistic Reflexologist and author
of the best-selling book, Feet First: A Guide to Foot Reflexology,
offers private Holistic Reflexology and Inspired Life Coaching sessions
and Holistic Reflexology Training Programs in New York City starting March 16th.
(See our ad in this issue for our complete class calendar)

Educational DVDs in Foot, Hand and Face Reflexology
and natural aromatherapy products available.
Beautiful instant gift certificates available online for all occasions.
Visit www.lauranorman.com  • Call 212-532-4404