Academic Episode - Kinda? Does a Compassion Class Count?

I just want to take a moment to talk about the Strengthening the Heart through Compassion class that I have been taking.

The class is just a 1 unit athletic class that meets two hours a week and has no required outside work.

However, it has been a transformative class for me.

The curriculum is centered around Mindfulness, Self-Compassion, and Common Humanity and strengthening these through meditation. Meditation allows oneself to be aware of breathing and your body in the present moment. This fosters mindfulness and then can be tailored to help self-compassion. The guided meditations have me repeat phrases for myself and others that help me feel a part of the human condition and caring towards myself and others. I don't do any of these things well enough but I am simply practicing. All I know is that every time I walk out of class, I feel rejuvenated and refreshed and ready to take on the challenges I have in front of me. My yoga class also helps to put me in this similar mood and I am so grateful for my teachers and their practice.