Center for Mindful Self-Compassion
The Center for Mindful Self-Compassion is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving the collective well-being of the planet through self-compassion training and practice. Our vision is a world where each person matters and everyone belongs. We welcome your presence. Join us at www.centerformsc.org
What is Self-Compassion?
Self-compassion involves responding in the same supportive and understanding way you would with a good friend when you have a difficult time, fail, or notice something you don’t like about yourself. There are three elements which comprise self-compassion: Self-kindness vs. self-judgment, common humanity vs. isolation, and mindfulness vs. over-identification.
1. Mindfulness vs. Over-Identification
This is central to self-compassion and provides the awareness needed to be with ourselves as we are and to validate our pain. It’s a balanced state that steers clear of two common reactions to suffering: avoidance and over-identification.
2. Common Humanity vs. Isolation
Common humanity involves recognizing that suffering and personal inadequacy are part of the shared human experience – something that we all go through rather than being something that happens to “me” alone.
3. Self-Kindness vs. Self-Judgment
The element of kindness at the core of self-compassion entails being warm and understanding toward ourselves when we suffer, fail, or feel inadequate, rather than ignoring our pain or punishing ourselves with self-criticism.