Something I struggle with is self compassion.

I was introduced to the research and teaching of Kristin Neff. She has developed self compassion exercises and mindfulness . I was introduced to this about 3 years ago.

I have come to accept that the only way to genuinely experience peace is to meet yourself, and your experience with compassion, gentleness and acceptance.

But it has taken time.

Let me share something about myself with you.

I am extremely hard on myself.

I expect myself to be perfect.

I expect myself to not be phased by my experience.

I expect myself to be able to be strong all the time.

I view my emotions as weakness.

I have not been a safe place for myself.

If we want to be a safe place for others, we must be a safe place for ourselves as well.

This is not out of selfishness, or self- centeredness.

It is simply an understanding that that which we wish to give to those around us, we must first have toward ourselves.

Some of the things that keep us from offering self compassion may include:

Feeling unworthy.

Stubbornness

Guilt

Blame

Anger

… and expectations.

How do we move toward compassion?

acknowledging moments of suffering, but more specifically allowing your thoughts, feelings and emotions to come and be . Not pushing them down or away. But holding them with care, love and honoring the moment.

Staying present with your experience without judgement or wishing it were different.

Breathing with the ebb and flow of your intern experience has helped me.

Where does self compassion stand in your book?

Be encouraged,

Rachael