Self Compassion is a Super Power!

 The Power of Self-Compassion

“To love ourselves, we need to understand our suffering, our pain, and to care for it. That is how healing can begin.”-Thich Nhat Hanh

Remember, it is not a sign of weakness or selfishness to show yourself kindness when you're having a hard time. Cultivating self-compassion is a proven method for providing a path to emotional balance and bolstering both mental well-being and inner strength. It is literally the most powerful thing that you can do to immediately begin to heal, grow and transform your life.  But what exactly is it, and how can we unlock our capacity to show ourselves care instead of judgment during times of struggle?

Understanding Self-Compassion

According to compassion pioneer Kristen Neff, self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you'd offer a good friend facing upsetting moments or hard times. 

3 Important Things to Remember

• Self-Kindness vs Self Judgment: Offering care and support to yourself when facing challenges or feeling anxious about the future.  

• Common Humanity vs Isolation: Recognizing that feelings of uncertainty and worry are part of the shared human experience, especially during times of struggle. 

 • Mindfulness vs Over-identification: Balancing awareness of your thoughts and feelings without getting overwhelmed by them.  

The Benefits of Self-Compassion

Practicing self-compassion has countless benefits:• Reduced anxiety and emotional reactivity  

• Increased resilience in the face of uncertainty  • Improved ability to engage in constructive dialogue  

• Enhanced overall well-being for people of all ages.Practice 

Steps to learning how to practice self-compassion.

1. Pause. Notice when you're having a hard time.

2. Remind yourself that you're human. All humans struggle. You're not alone. Acknowledge emotions without judgment:

3. Show yourself kindness. Ask: “What do I need right now?”Engage the DBT Skill of  Wise Mind—the balance between emotion and reason—to respond compassionately to yourself and the situation.

4. Practice Radical Acceptance: Remind yourself that while you can't control external events, you can control your response to them. Radical Acceptance can help.

 Remember, cultivating self-compassion takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself as you develop these skills.

As you move forward, carry this thought with you: You are worthy of compassion simply because you exist. 

By treating yourself with kindness and understanding, you're building the inner strength needed to navigate challenging times with grace and resilience

."Be kinder to yourself. And then let your kindness flood the world." — Pema Chödrön