What is self-compassion?
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Self-compassion is being kind and tender to ourselves as we would with others who are experiencing heartache, trial or tribulation.
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It is the moment we sit with ourselves and self-reflect without harsh judgement or criticism.
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It is being gentle with our own mind, heart and soul.
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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?
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You may find we are harder on ourselves, with a critical inner voice that judges every action, thought word or deed we do.
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It’s the voice that says, we are not good enough, we should have done this or that, or we are not worthy.
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Self-compassion is an important aspect of self-love and self-acceptance.
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Self-compassion allows us to love ourselves.
Dr Neff discusses the various components that make up self-compassion which include the following:
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Mindfulness – being mindful and noticing our own suffering is important. We recognise our stress without being judgemental or overreading.
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Self- Kindness – being open hearted, supportive and understanding towards ourselves.
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Connectedness – understand that suffering is part of a shared experience in humanity.
Honouring and Serving,
Simran K. Rattan MD