How to Practice Self-Compassion

White and purple flowers on table

How often do you stop and reflect on all you’ve accomplished? How often do you thank yourself for all of the little and big things you make possible, just by existing? Sometimes, we graciously extend love, care, and the gentle-ness we need for ourselves to others. Today, we’re here to celebrate that, and apply the same level of kindness, empathy, and thought to you!

Practicing self-compassion may sound intimidating, but truthfully, it’s the secret to combating burnout, accessing joy, and greater acceptance of yourself, all of these things are well deserved! As you move through your day, try to offer yourself a reminder that we’re all doing our best with what we’ve got, and that your best is good enough.

There’s a unique relationship between being kind to yourself, and accessing the care and support you need. When life gets overwhelming, unlocking your self-compassion and resilience will help calm your inner critic, and ground your feet firmly in support, kindness, and understanding.

Our inner critic has been trained to motivate us by judging our actions and selves as a whole. Self-compassion is the secret weapon to challenging and acknowledging this style of thinking, and motivates us to use compassion rather than judgment to guide our behaviours. Establishing what feels compassionate and supportive for you may be different than what others need. Your unique needs for kind moments and thoughts are valid and deserving of attention. Try the following tips to practice and familiarize yourself with your kindness and compassion.

Kindness over Judgment

Do you ever have those moments of feeling like you’ve failed? Like you’re not doing enough? This is a great opportunity to hear the ‘voice’ of your thoughts. It can feel difficult to challenge negative thinking, but simply acknowledging that nobody is perfect, mistakes are unavoidable, and you are not your mistakes can offer warmth and light in moments of discomfort. Take a pause and tell yourself the same advice you’d offer a friend in need of some love and compassion.

Tend to your needs

Developing an awareness of your body and tending to your needs is a critical aspect of showing yourself compassion. Pay close attention to your body’s cues indicating hunger, thirst, or a need for rest. Fueling yourself, taking a moment to breathe, relaxing tense muscles and slowing down when things feel fast is a quick way to re-orient, clear your mind, and show your body that you honour and hear its needs. In our busy lives, there’s a growing disconnect between our bodies and minds, this step will lead to heightened awareness and care for you!

Work Backwards

Think of a time that caused you pain, or you felt low. Grab yourself a pen and paper, and write yourself a message, long or short, that you wish you could have heard at that moment. This is an opportunity for you to experience a painful event with the support of your compassionate and kindest self. Self-compassion is a routine we establish with ourselves. This activity may encourage you to activate your compassionate mind and awareness and get in touch with this version of yourself you may have needed back then.

Say Thank YOU!

Taking moments to celebrate and acknowledge everything you do is a key component of shifting your focus from judgment to appreciation and gratitude. Celebrating the end of a long day, the making of a meal, or a special moment you experience is an opportunity to encourage, motivate, and honour your contributions to the world, and the power of creating meaning in your life. When our inner critic wants to see the glass half empty, a bit of kindness and perspective could reshape our perception of the glass as half full.

Take a Moment

While I have you here, take a moment to explore how you are feeling, any thoughts you may have, and what your immediate needs are. Consideration, thought, and interest in yourself are all radical measures of kindness and self-compassion.
Hannah Marsala Psychotherapist at Bloom Well Therapy

Written By Hannah Marsala

M.S.W., R.S.W., RP (Q)

Hannah Marsala is a Masters of Social Work Student with Bloom Well Therapy. Her special interest in bringing you content related to relationships, wellness, and self-compassion have inspired this post. Her motto is, “take what you need, leave what you don’t!”.

Found this article helpful?

Share it directly with people in your network!

Bloom Well Therapy Logo

Bloom Well Therapy provides psychotherapy services for your mental health & perinatal mental health needs.

Other Posts

Join The List