A Metta (Loving-Kindness) Retreat for a Cancer Support Group
Madeline Ko-i Bastis
Chaplaincy Today July 1, 1999 DOI: 10.1080/10999183.1999.10767120 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Practical guide or manual Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Cancer patients attending a day-long Metta retreat at Gilda's Club in New York City |
| Duration | Day-long retreat |
| Key points | The author describes adapting Metta meditation for people of any faith tradition and leading a day-long retreat for cancer patients at Gilda's Club. The article provides practice instructions and retreatants' responses, and contends that Metta develops a sense of community and caring. |
Abstract
Metta is a traditional Buddhist meditation that opens the heart to unconditional love for oneself and others. It promotes a sense of well-being in the midst of difficult situations and is helpful in reducing stress, encouraging a peaceful sleep and enhancing the feeling of equanimity. The author has adapted Metta so it can be used by anyone, no matter what their faith tradition. The article describes a day-long Metta retreat for cancer patients at Gilda's Club in New York City and shows how Metta develops a sense of community and caring. Instructions for Metta are given as are retreatants' responses.