To start let’s define self-compassion by alleviating suffering for you and others.
A component of compassion is mindfulness, you need to be mindfully aware of the suffering being without avoiding it. Another component is kindness, treating yourself and others with kindness.
Mindfulness is paying attention to the present moment experience with acceptance and non-judgement. Mindfulness is used as the contemplative practice of awakening heart and minds. Relating to the present moment with acceptance and allowing to see things as they are.
Another important element is understanding the impermanence of things, understanding that we are part of the larger interdependent universe and everything arises and passes away so we became less attached to things, the positive and the negatives.
Helping people cultivate contemplative practice creates space to non-judgmental awareness and wisdom arises by understanding the nature of the universe.
In the modern society is difficult to practice self-compassion, people tend to be very critical with themselves and people think they are not good enough. In the mindfulness practice, you can practice self-compassion implicitly.
Mindfulness increase self-compassion, love and kindness meditations can help you to increase self-compassion and ultimately live a happier life. Also as a secondary effect, you can reduce stress as you are more mindful and compassionate with yourself and others.
Based on the Kristin Neff, Ph.D., is an associate professor in human development and culture at the University of Texas,