How does it work and how do we do it?

Self-compassion works by changing the way we relate to our own struggles. Instead of falling into cycles of self-criticism or denial when we face difficulty, we instead offer ourselves understanding and kindness. This doesn’t mean avoiding accountability, but rather approaching our mistakes and pain with the same compassion we’d show a good friend. Self-compassion can be practised in daily life, during meditation or through specific exercises and reflections.

What benefits could we see from a regular self-compassion practice?

The benefits of self-compassion are many. It’s been linked to reductions in negative mental states like depression, anxiety and stress. Meanwhile, it’s been associated with increases in positive mental states like happiness, life satisfaction and optimism. By fostering an attitude of self-compassion, we also tend to enhance our emotional resilience, enabling us to navigate life’s ups and downs more smoothly.

Are there any ways we can do this wrong?

One common pitfall of self-compassion is the misconception that it’s a form of self-pity or self-indulgence. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Self-compassion is not about feeling sorry for oneself but about acknowledging our pain and treating ourselves with kindness. To avoid this pitfall, it’s important to educate ourselves about what self-compassion truly is. Additionally, some people might struggle to practice self-compassion due to deeply ingrained habits of self-criticism. Regular practice and patience are key in these cases.

One Good Thing: it’s high time you made self-compassion a must-do, not just an option