Finding Our Voice

Some people think that self-compassion means just accepting the pain of our situation without trying to change things. When we care about ourselves, we will advocate for change, and our voice becomes more powerful and authentic.

Self-Compassion and Neurodiversity

When Rowan was first diagnosed, I didn’t recognize the hidden gifts of his autism. I was scared and worried and often felt overwhelmed by the challenges – language delay, intense tantrums, and learning difficulties. My ability to allow compassion to flow inward to myself as a parent as well as to Rowan meant that I had more strength to handle the tough stuff and to love and accept Rowan exactly as he was.

Cultivating goodwill

Given that our internal emotional landscape colors our experience 24/7, one could argue that it’s most important to direct goodwill inward. When we are kind and supportive with ourselves, we create a benevolent mindset that provides the resources to give to others.

Who is the Self in Self-Compassion?

Some people feel they can’t give themselves compassion, that they’re too hurt, or they’re unworthy. But if we reframe self-compassion as tapping into something that’s much greater than our small self, allowing our inner thoughts, feelings and perceptions to be held by the loving awareness of Self, then who is it that “can’t” do it?

Equanimity in Self-Compassion Practice

Our ability to use self-compassion to be with pain is one key to working with our feelings of intense grief and shock. Another helpful aspect of self-compassion is equanimity. Equanimity refers to the balance and calm that arises when we acknowledge human imperfection with an open heart.