Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) is an empirically-supported training programme designed to cultivate the skill of self‐compassion. Based on the groundbreaking research of Kristin Neff and the clinical expertise of Chris Germer, MSC teaches core principles and practices that enable participants to respond to difficult moments in their lives with kindness, care and understanding.
The three key components of self-compassion are self‐kindness, a sense of common humanity, and balanced, mindful awareness. Kindness opens our hearts to suffering, so we can give ourselves what we need. Common humanity opens us to our essential interrelatedness, so that we know we aren’t alone. Mindfulness opens us to the present moment, so we can accept our experience with greater ease. Together they comprise a state of warm-hearted, connected presence.
Self-compassion can be learned by anyone, even those who didn’t receive enough affection in childhood or who feel uncomfortable when they are good to themselves. It’s a courageous attitude that stands up to harm, including the harm that we unwittingly inflict on ourselves through self‐criticism, self-isolation, or self‐absorption. Self‐compassion provides emotional strength and resilience, allowing us to admit our shortcomings, motivate ourselves with kindness, forgive ourselves when needed, relate wholeheartedly to others, and be more authentically ourselves.
Rapidly expanding research demonstrates that self‐compassion is strongly associated with emotional wellbeing, less anxiety, depression, and stress, maintenance of healthy habits such as diet and exercise, and satisfying personal relationships. And it’s easier than you think.
After participating in this programme, you’ll be able to:
Programme activities include meditation, short talks, experiential exercises, group discussion, and home practices. MSC is a workshop than a retreat. The goal is for participants to directly experience self-compassion and learn practices that evoke self- compassion in daily life.
MSC is primarily a compassion training programme rather than a mindfulness training like MBSR or MBCT, although mindfulness is the foundation of self‐compassion. MSC is also not psychotherapy, insofar as the emphasis of MSC is on building emotional resources rather than addressing old wounds. Positive change occurs naturally as we develop the capacity to be with ourselves in a kinder, more compassionate way.
While some difficult emotions may arise when practicing self‐compassion, MSC teachers are committed to providing a safe, supportive environment for this process to unfold, and to making the journey interesting and enjoyable for everyone.
No previous experience with mindfulness or meditation is required to attend MSC. To ensure safety, participants are asked to provide background information when they register for the programme.
This programme fulfills one of the prerequisites for becoming an MSC teacher.