Dr. Kristin Neff
In a culture of endless striving and competition, self-compassion might feel like a luxury we can’t afford. The truth is we can’t afford to be without it. Research has shown that self-compassion leads to healthy habits, lowers anxiety and depression, and supports more satisfying relationships.
When we practice self-compassion, we treat ourselves kindly, as we would a close friend or loved one. Rather than continually judging and evaluating ourselves, self-compassion involves generating kindness toward ourselves as imperfect humans, and learning to be present with greater ease when encountered with the inevitable struggles of life. Most of us feel compassion when someone we are close to is struggling. What would it be like to receive the same caring attention from yourself when you need it the most?
This workshop provides simple tools for responding in a kind, compassionate way whenever we are experiencing painful emotions. Through discussion, meditation, and experiential exercises, participants gain practical skills to help bring self-compassion into their daily lives.
Learn how to stop being so hard on yourself and handle difficult emotions with greater ease. Motivate yourself and interact with others from a place of kindness rather than criticism. This workshop is relevant for the general public as well as for practicing mental health professionals and includes practices to help ease stress in caregivers.