Taoist Inner Smile Meditation
This seated meditation is inspired by a Taoist practice called the Inner Smile. It helps you tune into your body and bring a quiet sense of care to parts of yourself that often get ignored or held tightly.
In five element theory, each organ is linked to certain emotions and qualities. When these organs are in balance, they’re not just physical, they carry positive emotional states too.
The heart holds joy and connection
The lungs hold clarity and courage
The liver holds kindness and generosity
The kidneys hold gentleness and softness
The spleen holds trust and openness
In this practice, you’ll be guided to move your awareness through these areas slowly, offering each one a gentle internal smile, a soft attention.
No need to feel anything in particular. Just stay present and let the body respond in its own time.
How to Prepare
Sit upright in a way that feels stable and relaxed
You can use a chair or cushion, whatever helps your spine feel supported
Hands can rest in your lap or on your knees
You might want a blanket around your shoulders
Eyes can be closed or softly open
If your attention drifts, just come back to the area we’re focusing on. You don’t need to do it perfectly.