3 Steps To Access Self-Compassion

Today we explore the first practice, experiencing the simple power of placing our hand on our heart. I share some of the science behind why this is such a useful self-compassion practice. And we spend a little time, acknowledging some of what can get in our way, even when we know greater self-compassion would truly benefit us... and potentially benefit those around us too. I also share some of my own story and how this practice came to be so meaningful in my own life. We close with a mindful moment, including some gentle music to help deepen the time of rest and relaxation.

In Day 2 we deepen our awareness of our breath, with a quick exercise using a longer breath. And we explore how even in the brief time it takes to breathe in and out, our body goes through a time of transition. We can use our awareness of this transition to help us create a greater sense of calm - and through doing this, bring more self-compassion to the moment. Just as Day 1's exercise is possible to practice anytime, anywhere... so is this. It's another wonderful example of practical compassion we can all use everyday. As before, we will close with a mindful moment to deeply rest and explore the practice.

In Day 1 and 2, we used a gesture and our breath to help access our self-compassion physically. In today's lesson, we use language to bring more self-compassion directly to our mind. We see how sometimes we may carry stories about how we 'should' be - and that sometimes those stories can lead us to being overly critical or judgmental of ourselves. And we see how our language can inform - and change - how we feel. Like the others, this practice is also available to us anytime, anywhere. Something we can all use everyday. As before, we will close with a mindful moment for deep rest and relaxation.