Dear CMSC Community,

As we arrive at the midpoint of the year, many of us find ourselves taking stock—of where we’ve been, what we’re carrying, and what we still hope for in the months ahead. It’s a natural time to pause. And yet, so often, our instinct is to push forward rather than turn inward.

At the Center for Mindful Self‑Compassion, we’re gently inviting another way: to meet yourself where you are. Not where you think you should be, not where you hoped you would be—but right here, with kindness and curiosity.

This month, we explore what it means to offer ourselves compassion in the midst of our real, imperfect lives. Whether you’re feeling energized, uncertain, overwhelmed, or simply in need of a reset, self‑compassion gives us a steady ground to stand on, one that supports both healing and growth.

I hope you’ll take this moment as an opportunity to pause, reconnect, and remember that the community here at CMSC works to create the resources and learning to support your MSC practice.

With warmth and gratitude,
​Michael Reved​
Interim Executive Director

Vielen Dank • Muchas Gracias • Tack så mycket • Veel dank • Merci beaucoup
非常感谢你 • ありがとうございました • Thank you very much
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Research: Self-Compassion as Resistance: Exploring the Benefits of Self-Compassion for Queer Couples

What role can self‑compassion play in healing not just individuals, but relationships shaped by social stigma? A recent study, Self‑Compassion as Resistance: Exploring the Benefits of Self‑Compassion for Queer Couples, offers powerful insight into this question.

Drawing on data from over 100 queer couples, the research highlights how self‑compassion supports healthier, more connected relationships—while also helping to soften the impact of internalized stigma. Rather than being simply an inward‑focused practice, self‑compassion emerges here as a deeply relational resource, one that can counter layers of shame and strengthen how we show up for ourselves and one another.

In the spirit of this month’s theme—Meeting Yourself Where You Are—this study reminds us that offering ourselves kindness is not only an act of personal care, but also a quiet and meaningful form of resilience.

Soft Landing Meditation: Loving Kindness for Our Queer Selves

In this gentle soft landing meditation, you’re invited to pause, arrive, and rest in a space of warmth and acceptance. Certified MSC Teacher Markus Bohlman guides us through a loving-kindness practice written by fellow Certified MSC Teacher Armel Law Wraight for members of the LGBTQIAP2S+ community.
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At its heart, this practice reflects the universal, deeply human longing to belong, to be accepted just as we are, and to be treated with dignity and respect.,
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Whether you’re feeling tender, resilient, uncertain, or proud, this short practice is an invitation to meet yourself with care, belonging, and deep kindness.

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International Self-Compassion Day
​Saturday, July 18, 2026

International Self-Compassion Day (ISCD) is a global invitation to pause, practice, and remember our shared humanity.

Created by the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion in 2024, ISCD celebrates the transformative power of self-compassion to ease suffering, support well-being, and strengthen our connection with ourselves and one another.

However you choose to acknowledge the day—through rest, reflection, meditation, or an act of kindness—we invite you to take a few moments to offer yourself and others the care we all need and deserve.

Free Live Online Midyear Renewal Retreat
​Belonging to Ourselves and Each Other​
​Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 8-11 am & 4-7 pm PT

We’ll continue the celebration of International Self-Compassion Day with our annual Midyear Renewal Retreat: Belonging to Ourselves and Each Other on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

Featuring MSC co-founders Kristin Neff and Chris Germer, along with MSC teachers from around the world, including Susan Gitau (Kenya), Dennis Johnson (Germany), Adrian Wan (Hong Kong), and Anna Friis (New Zealand), with hosts Lisa Baylis (Canada) and Ben Weinstein (Thailand)

Together, we’ll explore how self-compassion can help us deepen our connection with ourselves, one another, and our shared humanity.

Through meditation, reflection, and companionable silence, this retreat offers a spacious day of renewal in a welcoming community for anyone longing to feel more grounded, connected, and at home in themselves.

Register early even if you can’t attend live. Everyone who registers will receive free replay access for 7 days after the retreat.

Live Online Mindful Self-Compassion (LOMSC)

Learn the full practices and theories of self-compassion in our 10-week, live online programs! These courses are taught by certified MSC teachers around the world and help you establish a consistent self-compassion practice founded in research and science. You'll learn how self-compassion can lessen anxiety, depression, and stress and improve your relationships, health, and resilience. Join a course today. Courses available monthly. Explore all upcoming LOMSC dates.

June 10 - August 12​ ​Wednesdays 9-11am PT ​ Register

June 28 - August 30​ ​Sundays 8-10am PT ​ Register

​Live Online Teacher Training (LOTT-29)​
​Wednesdays, July 1 - September 16, 2026 | 4:00–7:00 pm PT
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Help Us Find CMSC’s Next Executive Director

The Center for Mindful Self-Compassion (CMSC) is seeking a visionary, mission-driven Executive Director to help lead our organization into its next chapter of global impact. This remote role will guide organizational strategy, fundraising, operations, team development, and worldwide community engagement while serving as a key ambassador for CMSC’s mission and values.

We are seeking a grounded, collaborative leader with strong nonprofit leadership and fundraising experience, excellent communication skills, and a deep belief in the transformative power of mindful self-compassion. If you—or someone in your network—may be a fit for this opportunity, we warmly invite you to reach out or apply at jobs@centerformsc.org.

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The Center for Mindful Self-Compassion is an international nonprofit organization that serves over 250,000 people in our global community. We are dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving the collective well-being of the planet through scientifically researched self-compassion training and practice. Our vision is a world where each person matters and everyone belongs. Your donations allow us to share self-compassion training around the world and keep Circles of Practice free to those in need. Thank you in advance for any support you are inspired to donate.