The following mediation titled “The Welcoming” is taken from When Women Rise: Everyday Practices to Strengthen Your Mind, Body, and Soul by Dr. Michele Kambolis.

Meditation: The Welcoming

Time needed: 5 minutes

Click here to listen to the audio meditation.

This meditation was inspired by the teachings of social justice activist Konda Mason, whose guidance has helped so many people examine with fresh eyes the dynamics of oppression and inclusion.

Meditation

Let’s begin by coming into stillness.

You might close your eyes or leave them open slightly, resting the gaze lightly on the space in front of you.

There is no wrong way to be here.

Welcome yourself into this moment.

There is no better thing to do with time today than this.

Let this be a loving practice of self-discovery.

Notice the breath now, and the body.

Take in a deep sense of welcome.

Allow yourself to soften at the heart center.

And know that every part of you is welcomed here.

Together, let us welcome all genders.

We welcome all of the backgrounds and languages that you bring.

We welcome your diverse races and ethnic groups, all sexual orientations, and faiths.

We welcome your diverse bodies and abilities, and people of all ages.

We welcome those who are single, married, parents, nonparents. We welcome all of you.

We welcome all your emotions, your worries and fear, and your joy.

Let us welcome each other with the heart of unwavering love and respect.

And may we rise into our highest well-being together.

When Women Rise is available now.

Excerpted from When Women Rise: Everyday Practices to Strengthen Your Mind, Body, and Soul by Dr. Michele Kambolis. Copyright © 2021 by Dawn Michele Hucul-Kambolis. Excerpted with permission from Figure 1 Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.