We have all been on the receiving end of a kind word or friendly gesture from someone. Many of us are also probably quick to offer nice words to others often. Why, then, is it that we find it so hard to speak to ourselves that way? In our culture, we are constantly surrounded by messages of goal-setting, wellness agendas, etc. It is natural to see how we feel others are telling us we should be, compare it to where we think we currently are, and end up in a cycle of self-loathing. If we can all approach ourselves with more understanding, it can cause a domino effect of more positive impacts. And that’s where self-compassion comes in.
So, where do we start?
If you are ready to practice a bit more self-compassion in your life but don’t know where
to start, try the following steps to get the ball rolling.
1. Create time for reflection.
The most vital piece of self-compassion is to take time and think about where you are versus where you were and where you want to be. Being realistic about where we are on our own scale can create more focused goals.
2. Talk to Yourself Like You’re a Friend.
Before or after a troubling situation that would often lead you to negative self-talk, ask yourself if you would talk to a friend the way you’re talking to yourself. If the answer is no, re-frame! Treat yourself with kindness. Try reframing in a realistic but kind way, such as “That test didn’t go as planned, but I know if I study harder next time, I’ll get a higher grade.” or “I enjoyed that cookie but tomorrow want to challenge myself to stay to my eating plan.”
3. Comfort Yourself.
Sometimes, to be in a better headspace, we need to provide ourselves with some actual comfort. Doing a face mask, enjoying a nice walk in the sun with an audiobook, or finding a relaxing hobby can allow you to reset and reframe.
4. Journal.
When going through a challenging situation and still trying to practice self-compassion, release it. Writing a stream-of-consciousness journal can help you remove the emotions you may be internalizing.
5. Healing Self Touch
Physical touch comes with a lot of power and activates a caring response. Even placing your hands on your body in a warm, gentle way can be incredibly soothing.
Why is self-compassion important?
How we treat ourselves can have many positive impacts. Naturally, when we are more self-compassionate, we can see decreases in anxiety, depression, and other physiological symptoms typically found with higher stress levels. An article from Better Up also highlights some additional benefits of self-compassion. This can be demonstrated with,
“Self-compassion allows us to be more emotionally resilient in times of success and adversity. It helps us assess situations more objectively and supports us in making sound decisions.”
On top of the benefits mentioned above, practicing self-compassion can contribute to a better feeling of balance and stability.
In an ever-changing world, it is essential to prioritize mental health and advocate for our safety, health, and well-being. Practicing self-compassion is a good way to do so. Do you have ways you like to ensure you care for yourself? Let us know in the comments below.
Featured image via Los Muertos Crew on Pexels
