7. Sending and taking should be practiced alternately. These two should ride the breath.

This slogan refers to the practice of Tonglen (literally “sending and taking”), a formal meditation practice. Tonglen is a revolutionary practice of exchanging self for others; in Pema Chödrön’s words it “reverses the logic of ego.” My typical, habitual response to suffering and pain is to turn (or run!) away from it. Likewise, when I experience joy or satisfaction I habitually want to keep it to myself, if not eat it whole.

In the practice of Tonglen, however, I am instructed to take in pain and send out relief! What a strange idea in our conditioned culture of self-promotion at the expense of others.

You can find written and audio Tonglen instructions, as well as guided and unguided meditation timers, on the Practices Page linked at the bottom of this page.