Karuna is compassion—the ability to feel deeply for others’ suffering without losing yourself in it. It is a powerful force that softens hardened hearts and opens the Anahata Chakra widely. Compassion connects us beyond differences into shared humanity, revealing Paramashiva’s universal love within.
For many Westerners who value independence, karuna may seem challenging because it requires vulnerability and empathy beyond personal boundaries. Yet true compassion flows naturally once we recognize that every being desires happiness and freedom from pain—just like ourselves.
Begin by practicing loving-kindness meditation: silently wish well-being for yourself, loved ones, strangers, even those difficult in life. This practice expands emotional capacity and dissolves judgmental walls around the heart.
Simple Practice: Each day spend five minutes silently repeating: “May I be happy. May all beings be happy.” Notice how this simple act gradually opens your heart center.