What is self-compassion?
Jul 28, 2020
Self-compassion is being kind and tender to ourselves as we would with others who are experiencing heartache, trial or tribulation. It is the moment we sit with ourselves and self-reflect without harsh judgement or criticism. It is being gentle with our own mind, heart and soul. It is realising, while it is a gift of loving kindness to be compassionate towards others spiritually, we need to afford ourselves the same loving kindness.Dr Kristin Neff, researcher on self-compassion states,
“With self-compassion, we give ourselves the same kindness and care we’d give to a good friend.” This statement is powerful.
When we reflect on some of the things we say and do, for our friends & family who come to us with a problem, often the thoughts and words we share with them, come from a place of compassion, acceptance and non-judgement.
Think of some of the things you say to someone you care about, who come to you with a worry or concern or are being hard o. themselves. Write these down.
Now ask yourself, do I say the same things to myself when I make a mistake?
You may find we are harder on ourselves, with a critical inner voice that judges every action, thought word or deed we do.It’s the voice that says, we are not good enough, we should have done this or that, or we are not worthy.
Self-compassion is an important aspect of self-love and self-acceptance. Self-compassion allows us to love ourselves.Dr Neff discusses the various components that make up self-compassion which include the following:
Mindfulness – being mindful and noticing our own suffering is important. We recognise our stress without being judgemental or overreading.
Self- Kindness – being open hearted, supportive and understanding towards ourselves.
Connectedness – understand that suffering is part of a shared experience in humanity.Honouring and Serving,
Simran K. Rattan MD
Simran K. Rattan MD