Special Guest Introduction byCMSC Programs Director, Natalie Bell (She/Her) Hello Friends of Self-Compassion, In this time of heightened tension our responsibility for self-care takes on even greater importance. Many of us find ourselves in caregiving roles—whether it’s for family, friends, or our clients at work. In the midst of caring for others it’s easy, and common, to overlook the person who also needs care—yourself! Whether you’re helping a loved one through a tough time, comforting a...
15 days ago • 6 min read
Hello!The Center for Mindful Self-Compassion would like to take a moment to thank you, once again - for your participation, your authenticity, and the work you do for the people you serve. In an effort to always learn more and have our programs improve, we ask you provide feedback through a survey. This survey can be found here.This is also required to receive your CEUs. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected], Eliza CMSC Program...
29 days ago • 1 min read
Special Guest Introduction byCMSC Board Member, Marta Alonso (She/Her) Hello Friends of Self-Compassion, Have you ever thought that being good, generous, and sensitive would make you vulnerable to others? Have you ever thought that being good and innocent was synonymous with being stupid? And when you have felt deep anger and resentment, have you criticized and judged yourself for it? If your answers are affirmative, it is because perhaps you have only experienced one part of compassion and...
about 1 month ago • 4 min read
Hello Friends of Self-Compassion, One part of the mindful self-compassion program involves identifying your compassionate friend. Mine happens to be Sasquatch, the mythical figure of the Pacific Northwest in North America. For me, this friend represents nature itself, along with the mystery and wonder of how everything is interconnected. A few weeks ago, I was fortunate to take a break from work and embark on a backcountry trip to Strathcona Provincial Park on Nuu-chah-nulth land, where I...
3 months ago • 6 min read
Special Guest Introduction by CMSC Education Director, Lisa Baylis (she/her) Hello Friends of Self-Compassion, As we welcome August, a month often associated with transitions and preparations for the upcoming school year, we want to highlight the work of educators and parents who work with youth and celebrate how the practice of self-compassion can support them in this role. This time of year can bring a mix of excitement and anxiety, and practicing self-compassion can be a powerful way to...
4 months ago • 7 min read
Hello Friends of Self-Compassion, There are times when I feel overwhelmed by the uncertainty of what lies ahead. Whether it's my aging body, how my community is addressing issues like homelessness, or global events that are tumultuous, a range of emotions surface—from fear to anxiety to anger. In these moments, I turn to my MSC practices and begin cultivating curiosity. I ask myself: What needs to be seen without judgment? What needs to be held gently? How does this experience connect me with...
5 months ago • 7 min read
Hello Friends of Self-Compassion, As we mark June as a month for Pride in the LGBTQIAP2S+ community, I’m reflecting on what it means to lead an organization that is dedicated to creating space and opportunity for inclusion. For me, it’s very personal, having lived decades in some form of “don’t ask, don’t tell” about my lived experiences and daily life as a queer person. The repetition of hiding for safety created isolation and self-judgment. Thankfully, practices like Mindful Self-Compassion...
6 months ago • 6 min read
Special Guest Introduction by CMSC Board President, Deirdre Maloney (she/her) Hello Friends of Self-Compassion, As I sit here, looking out my window, it is clear that the seasons are changing. And yet, life is not that simple. The winter skies don’t take a final bow one day, making way for spring’s permanent arrival the next. Instead, there is a holding on, a blending. Fresh spring morning air turns to frigid temperatures in the afternoon. Winter and spring combine into one…confusing…day. We...
7 months ago • 6 min read
Hello Friends of Self-Compassion, Here on the West Coast of North America, spring is offering flowers outside my window and this powerful beauty reminds me of April as Volunteer Month for the CMSC community. As a nonprofit charitable organization, we wholeheartedly cherish the countless hours and offerings our volunteers have contributed over the years to sustain this work. Their indispensable contributions are the backbone of our mission, allowing us to reach more hearts with the...
8 months ago • 6 min read