…assion expert Kristin Neff defines this concept in three basic components: Mindfulness (maintaining a balanced perspective in the midst of struggle) Common humanity (acknowledging that struggling is a shared part of the human experience) Self-kindness (responding to oneself with care and understanding when struggling) Through examining self-compassion in the light of these three different lenses, it can be easier to break down and apply into our d…
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…ace of unprecedented levels of uncertainty, now is the time to embrace the mindfulness principle of not living in the past or catastrophizing about the future. The only moment we can truly experience is the one we’re in. Each day, we can try to connect to what we’re experiencing through meditation, breathing, or a simple practice of noticing any sensations, images, feelings, or thoughts we’re having. We may appreciate the warmth of our home, the s…
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…ined by researcher Kristin Neff include: self-kindness over self-judgment, mindfulness over identification with thinking, and common humanity over isolation. One way to help ourselves through change is to practice these three things when life throws us a curveball. Self-kindness It is very challenging to take clear-headed actions in our lives when our minds are over-analyzing and critiquing our every move. The harsh judgmental ways we treat and ev…
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…ses people can engage in to reduce symptoms of depression Tools to enhance mindfulness, self-compassion, and a positive sense of self During the pandemic, a major study showed that the number of U.S. adults experiencing depression tripled. Depression is already the most common mental health disorder in America. With more and more people being affected, it is essential that we uncover tools, techniques, and treatments that help those suffering unde…
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…what’s going on in the present is known in personal development circles as Mindfulness and is a great way to tap into the here and now. From awareness follows acceptance and/or action. Perhaps you choose to simply acknowledge that this is a tough moment, that there is fear or uncertainty in you. That’s OK, too. Sometimes it can be more helpful to sit with a negative emotion for a minute or two to see what’s causing it, to air it. Then you can choo…
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…e three principles of self-compassion as self-kindness over self-judgment, mindfulness over identification with thoughts and feelings, and common humanity over isolation. Self-kindness When we’re having a hard time, our primary goal should be to treat ourselves as we would a friend going through the same thing. We should have empathy for ourselves and accept that what we’re going through is genuinely hard. Mindfulness When we get jolted into that…
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…ause within our own minds and reconnect with ourselves throughout the day. Mindfulness provides a way of checking in with ourselves, which is one of interpersonal neurobiology expert Dr. Daniel Siegel’s essential aspects on his “healthy mind platter.” Mindfulness allows us to breathe and be present in the moment. In these times of reconnection, we are not only more in touch with ourselves, but we are better able to recognize and be attuned to our…
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…g us much of our anxiety in the first place.” Meditate: Studies have shown mindfulness meditation to be a proven method for reducing stress and anxiety levels. Meditation allows us to quiet our minds, while getting to know our thoughts without letting them overpower us. Stress tends to worsen when we feel overwhelmed by the thoughts or “critical inner voices” that are commenting on various aspects of our lives. “When you’re sitting in meditation,…
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…self-doubt, every one of us should adopt what my friend, psychiatrist and mindfulness expert Dr. Daniel Siegel calls a COAL attitude, in which they are Curious, Open, Accepting and Loving toward themselves. Armed with this attitude, individuals are better able to battle one of the biggest obstacles they will encounter in life… their own inner critic. The “critical inner voice” is a concept I’m often introducing to new audiences. It’s the cornerst…
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…he three elements of self-compassion as self-kindness, common humanity and mindfulness. These characteristics serve as natural antidotes to narcissism. Not only can people who practice self-compassion face their shortcomings, but they can exercise patience and understanding, while aiming to overcome obstacles. Their focus is on others as well as themselves, and they’re able to view themselves as equals, while showing compassion for other people. W…
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