Mindful self-compassion is a radical act of self-care that increases peace and happiness. Mindfulness is awareness of the present moment, without clinging to it, without pushing it away or trying to escape it and without wanting it to be otherwise. It involves meeting whatever arises with acceptance and with an attitude of interest, curiosity, and kindness. Self-compassion involves treating ourselves with mercy and kindness.
Treat yourself with kindness and mercy.
Practice mindful self-compassion
How many moments during a day do we meet ourselves with mindful self-compassion? Are we able to meet ourselves with acceptance without wanting ourselves to be other than we are? How many times in a day do we meet ourselves with kindness? No one ever taught me how to treat myself with kindness and compassion. When I was in my early 20s, I became so weary of treating myself mercilessly that I committed to a yearlong practice of self-compassion, and it radically changed my life.
Practicing mindfulness and self-compassion is one of the most significant things we can do to deepen our personal and spiritual growth. Practicing mindfulness and self-compassion changes the brain in ways that support us in realizing our personal and professional intentions and goals. Neuroscience research shows that when we treat ourselves with kindness and compassion, we feel happier and more fulfilled, we experience less suffering and we experience less anxiety and depression. Just for today, try treating yourself with kindness, and notice what arises.
A good place to start is with yourself. See if you can give yourself gifts that may be true blessings, such as self-acceptance, or some time each day with no purpose.
–Jon Kabat-Zinn
Jen Johnson is a mindfulness teacher, coach, and therapist. She is also a photographer and writer. Jen teaches meditation for healing, creativity, and resilience. She teaches people how to develop a regular mindfulness practice and integrate it into everyday life.
Contact Jen to schedule a free 15-minute mindfulness coaching consultation.