In these times of uncertainty, the need to show compassionate latitude towards others and ourselves is of utmost importance. It carries with it an attitude of understanding that most people are doing the best they can based on their stress overload, anxiety, and the clouded thinking so many are experiencing. The need for more compassion and latitude is a profound necessity that emerges as we witness rising stress levels, global discontent, and ever-widening divides among individuals, communities and nations.

In a recent report by the Alzheimer’s Association, it was revealed that over 6 million people in America are currently living with Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). This devastating disease slowly erodes the minds of people we love and care for, but a ray of hope has emerged with a groundbreaking study that suggests heart coherence training developed by HeartMath Institute (HMI) may offer help to millions of individuals and potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Heart coherence refers to a specific rhythmic pattern of heart rate variability (HRV), which is the variation in the time intervals between consecutive heartbeats – the beat-to-beat changes. To achieve heart rhythm coherence, individuals are guided to consciously slow their breathing while engaging in specific techniques developed by HeartMath. These techniques typically involve slow-paced heart-focused breathing while self-generating positive emotions such as calmness, gratitude, appreciation, or compassion.

Forgiveness is a personal decision we have to make in the quietness of our heart. At times our spirit gifts us with the inspiration to forgive and release energy blocks with each other and ourselves. These cause our heart to shut off which creates glitches and separation in our relationships.

Many people feel separation and lack of deeper connection with friends or family because, in the past, they were emotionally hurt by them. Learning to release these feelings of disharmony is a powerfully effective tool for personal peace and happiness. It’s understandable why we feel it’s appropriate to hold onto bitterness and anger because this habit has been handed down from generation to generation and passed off as normal.

In a world that can be chaotic, noisy, and full of distractions, it’s common to lose sight of who we truly are. Deep down inside ourselves, we all have a true self, a core essence that is unique and authentic. Finding our true self requires us to slow down, quiet our minds, and tune in to our heart’s inner voice.

One way to reconnect with our true self is to spend time in nature; it has a way of calming our minds and reminding us of the beauty and simplicity of life. Another way to find our true self is to engage in activities that bring us joy. This could be anything from writing or playing music to volunteering or helping others in need. When we do things that align with our true selves, we feel a sense of purpose and meaning.