How to Get Started with Self- Compassion
We often hear the word “self-compassion” show up when we talk about strategies to manage mental health. In this blog we will discuss what is self-compassion, how to practice it and how it can help with trauma symptoms like anxiety. It is common to hear people give each other feedback to “love yourself” but that is a lot more challenging that it sounds. This can be challenging due to many factors. One major one is history of childhood trauma. It is difficult to learn to love oneself if that is not something that was modeled for some growing up. Thus, having a history of childhood abuse or neglect can make it difficult for one to develop that self-love and self-compassion.
What is self-compassion? According to the National Library of medicine “Self-compassion refers to being supportive toward oneself when experiencing suffering or pain-be it caused by personal mistakes and inadequacies or external life challenges”. Furthermore, by having more self-compassion a person may notice “reduced self-judgment, isolation, and over-identification.” (2023)
How can I practice it? One can begin practicing self- compassion when there are challenges in life. An easy way to begin is to ask oneself: Would I talk this way to my best friend or another loved person? If the answer is no, we are likely not being compassionate with ourselves. We tend to be our worst and harshest critic in time of stress or when we make mistakes. Turning that harsh negativity in to self-compassion can be a turning point. As one learns to be more self-compassionate there can be more room for growth and healing when we make mistakes, or external events don’t go on our favor.
How to does it help with trauma? People that have experienced trauma often get stuck in negative self-judgements and practicing self-compassion can help decrease these unhelpful thoughts. With the use of EMDR to treat trauma negative beliefs about oneself or the world can be processed. EMDR can help with increasing self-compassion and heal from trauma. If you are ready to begin your healing journey towards more self-compassion therapy can help.
If you are struggling with anxiety or trauma therapy can help. We can help you develop your own coping skills and heal from trauma using EMDR. Contact us for you free 15 min consultation info@pattymunoztherapy.com or call (909)206-4613. We offer therapy online throughout California and in person in Rancho Cucamonga, CA.
