Practicing Self-Compassion

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An article by Kristen Neff, Self-Compassion: An Alternative Conceptualization

of a HealthyAttitudeToward Oneself, examines what self-compassion is and gives an understanding of the basic components needed for a person to practice compassion towards oneself. 

What exactly is self-compassion and why is it important?

"Self-compassion involves being open to and moved by one’s own suffering, experiencing feelings of caring and kindness toward oneself, taking an understanding, nonjudgmental attitude toward one’s inadequacies and failures, and recognizing that one’s own experience is part of the common human experience" (Neff, 2003). Practicing self-compassion allows us to acknowledge our own humanity and extend ourselves grace instead of judgement. When we give ourselves the opportunity to sit with our experiences, it opens up our ability to connect with others. 

How can you practice it?

The three main components of self-compassion include self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. Self-kindness is turning the practice of kindness and understanding inward, common humanity is viewing our own experiences as a part of the larger human experience, and mindfulness is practicing self-awareness and balance with our thoughts and feelings (Neff, 2003). When we practice each of these, our self-compassion is able to increase along with our ability to be self-aware.