This week we will look at strategies for Self-Compassion. I was reminded many times this past week to be compassionate to myself. As I sat there listening to yet another guided meditation directing me to observe myself compassionately, I realized, I didn’t truly understand what compassion was. Did it mean to be kind to myself, to be understanding and patient with myself, maybe it meant to stop being so critical?
Compassion involves 3 important components: recognizing that someone is suffering, feeling sympathy or empathy for their suffering, and feeling drawn to act in a way that would support the person in alleviating their suffering. It is important to recognize that the “someone” who may be suffering includes you too.
Self Compassion is not always easy. It requires that you recognize or acknowledge that you are suffering, that you feel sympathy or empathy for yourself, and that you support yourself to alleviate the suffering.
Here are some suggested strategies for practicing Self-Compassion:
Guided Meditation for Self-Compassion: Green Mountain at Fox Run YouTube youtube.com/watch?v=KAuBXTT...
Self-Compassion Break: Self-Compassion.Org self-compassion.org/wp-cont...
2-Minute Tips: How to Practice Self-Compassion: YouTube youtube.com/watch?v=Qes9Hox...
One of the greatest hurdles to self-compassion is the belief that if you are too gentle with yourself you will not be motivated enough to overcome the hurdle you are facing. I found this article to be supportive in understanding why that is not the case: The Motivational Power of Self Compassion self-compassion.org/the-mot...
Building a collection of self-support tools will help you to feel empowered during difficult times; however, it is important to remember if you or someone you know is overwhelmed by suffering please reach out for help.
For more self support strategies for Emotional and Mental Wellness please visit our growing collection on our website: saveyourskin.ca/emotional-a...
