Be Kind to Your Mind: The Practice of Self-Compassion

Self-compassion seems to be one of those words where you nod, thinking, "Yep, I know what that word means." However, have more of a deer in the headlight look when you're actually asked to do it.

Suddenly, it becomes a nebulous concept, void of a tangible description. Let me shed some light.

Psychologist Dr. Kristin Neff, the leading expert on self-compassion, describes it as "the process of turning compassion inward."

She goes on to say, "We're kind and understanding rather than harshly self-critical when we fail, make mistakes, or feel inadequate. We give ourselves support and encouragement rather than being cold or judgmental when challenges and difficulties arise in our lives."