Often when we are tirelessly making sure everyone else is happy; it is our own expectations of ourselves, no one else’s. At our 80th birthday celebration or our funerals, do we want speeches about the immaculate house we kept or the restaurant quality meals we prepared or do we want words to be spoken about the passion that we had for a garden or the joy we experienced from creative projects.
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All of us are well practised at compassion; feeling kindness and empathy towards others and a desire to help reduce their suffering. Sadly, it is rare in our society that we practise self-compassion; extending kindness and care to ourselves that is free of judgment. We are constantly looking after others, giving to others, providing care, love and support through actions and words to others. But what are you giving to yourself? What kind, supportive thoughts are you thinking about yourself? |
How do we practise self compassion? Firstly, acknowledge that we are all in this together; all of us have our own baggage and challenges. Make a decision to quit judging yourself; it does not serve you. Most importantly, be kind to yourself as you would be kind to your friend or a child.
Through meditations and exercises we can learn to be more compassionate to ourselves, enabling us to be kinder and more compassionate to others and ultimately experience more joy in our lives.
Through meditations and exercises we can learn to be more compassionate to ourselves, enabling us to be kinder and more compassionate to others and ultimately experience more joy in our lives.