Embarking on a journey of self-compassion can be transformative. Discover seven insightful tips that will guide you towards a more forgiving, understanding, and kinder relationship with yourself. Let's delve into the art of self-compassion and its profound impact on personal growth.
Self-compassion is the act of noticing when you’re struggling, recognizing that’s actually part of being human, and being kind to yourself rather than beating yourself up.
Kristen Neff, PhD, an associate professor in the University of Texas in Austin’s department of educational psychology, developed the definition of the three elements: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness
- Why is it so important for health and well-being?
- Build resilience which helps us withstand the challenges of life
- Help reduce depression and anxiety
- Strengthen relationships
Don’t Get Frustrated if It Doesn’t Happen Right Away
It will take time.
- “If you find that you’re self-critical or lacking in self-compassion, it didn’t start yesterday,” Hickman notes. “It’s probably been something of a lifelong practice that you’ve built up for whatever reason.”
How to Get Better at Practicing Self-Compassion
Self-compassion requires a lot of inner strength
When You’re Upset, Imagine Comforting Your Younger Self or a Favorite Baby Animal
Imagining offering something or someone else compassion can make it much easier and still effective
Check in With Yourself Throughout the Day
Ask yourself, “What do I need right now?”
- Part of caring for yourself is listening to and then addressing your needs
- Maybe you need a half-hour break by yourself to recharge, or a nap or a reassuring conversation with a friend
Try a Guided Meditation
Guided meditation.
- Hickman provides recordings on his website that can help guide your self-compassion practice.
- There are more than a dozen available on Neff’s website, including guides for doing a compassionate body scan, noting your emotions, taking a protective break, and working with the emotions in your body.
Journal About Times You’re Harsh on Yourself
Make note of times when you notice harsh self-talk or judgments about yourself.
- See if you notice any patterns and ask yourself: “How have harsh judgments and negative self- talk helped me? And what am I afraid will happen if I shift them?”
Take a Course
Courses can be a great way to learn what self-compassion is and how you can apply it to your own life with the help of an expert.
