Catching up. First, our Thanksgiving message; you get to see it FIRST! SELF-COMPASSION: Last year we wrote about the importance of compassion in daily life, and this time we thought it would be a good idea to say a little about the importance of applying this quality to ourselves, as well as to others. In contrast to criticism, research has shown that a positive focus builds relationships, including that most important one, the relationship we all have with ourselves. THIS is what’s really meant when people quote the old saw that “we must love ourselves before we can really love anyone else”. Studies have also shown that self-compassion reduces stress and self-criticism, and boosts emotional resilience and self-worth. Just as compassion for others involves recognizing and wishing for relief from their suffering, we can turn that same sentiment inward. Dr. Kristin Neff, who published the first research on the subject and literally “wrote the book” on Self-Compassion recommends steps to building this positive resource that include allowing awareness of a painful experience—emotions, thoughts, physical sensations—naming the experience, recognizing that such pain is a normal part of being human, and taking some action to soothe the discomfort in a healthy, nurturing way.
Posted on: Thu, 14 Nov 2013 18:43:43 +0000
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