Friendliness (Maitri)
Maitrī
मैत्री
Friendliness or Loving-Kindness refers to a heartfelt attitude of goodwill, warmth, and the sincere wish for others to be happy.
Also known asLoving-kindness / Metta
Friendliness or Loving-Kindness refers to a heartfelt attitude of goodwill, warmth, and the sincere wish for others to be happy. Maitrī embodies a spirit of universal friendliness extended toward all beings, without discrimination.
In both Yoga and Buddhist traditions, Maitrī is a key quality that supports mental purification and spiritual growth. By cultivating unconditional kindness—even toward strangers or those we find difficult—we soften self-centeredness and nurture peace and connection.
- Practiced as Maitrī meditation, often with affirmations like “May all beings be happy.” - Encouraged in classes as an inner attitude to carry beyond the mat, especially in interactions and self-reflection. - Viewed as a method to dissolve emotional resistance and enhance interconnection.
- Remind students to direct Maitrī toward themselves first—self-compassion is the seed of true kindness. - Encourage its use during moments of frustration or judgment, transforming emotional reactivity into empathy.