Have you ever stopped to consider what your underlying beliefs about Self Compassion are? Those of us who have come to acknowledge that a practice of self-compassion would support us in both our relationship with our bodies and our day to day well being in general, often find ourselves feeling stuck in being able to practice self-compassion in a meaningful way. This stuckness is likely a result of unacknowledged beliefs about self-compassion that sabotage our efforts.
If you are feeling stuck, ask yourself if you see self-compassion as:
-The same as pity.
Pity tends to be reflective of feelings of superiority, of being better than. f we are practicing self-compassion we are remembering our common humanity and see the strength and resilience in others, as well as ourselves.
-A reflection of weakness, being soft.
It takes strength and courage to face our pain. Self-compassion provides us the bearing we need to keep moving forward.
-Something you are undeserving of (either from yourself or from others).
All beings are deserving of compassion. It may be important for you to do some work and reflect on the experiences and influences that have brought you to a place of feeling undeserving of compassion.
-Meaning you always put your needs above others.
If we always put others needs before out we will eventually burn out and experience anger and resentment. Practicing self-compassion and meeting our own needs helps us to be in a better place to meet the needs of others.
-Abdicating personal responsibility.
Self-compassion allows us to let go of self-critism and shame, but that does not mean we relinquish personal responsibility. In fact, a strong practice of self-compassion allows us to more readily face our the consequences of our actions, the good and the bad.
None of these reflect self-compassion, so if you are finding that you are holding any of these beliefs, look for opportunities to explore how you came to hold these beliefs and consider how you can let them go. Mediate, journal, create art…whatever works for you to help you see yourself with clarity.
Take some time to set an intention for the week ahead to notice when you get stuck and to use the opportunity to release the ideas of self-compassion that may be holding you back.
Here is one I offer you:
This week I will open myself to being aware of how offering myself self-compassion helps me to see the strength and resilience that resides inside me.
Thanks for reading,
Sydney