Mindfulness and Self-Compassion for a Healthier Outlook

Mindfulness and self-compassion are now buzzwords for self-improvement. In fact, you’ll find that a growing body of research shows that these practices can lead to real mental health benefits. Ongoing, voluminous, and worldwide research clearly shows you how and why these two practices work.

One effective way for you to cultivate mindfulness and self-compassion is through meditation.

Let’s define mindfulness and self-compassion. Mindfulness means purposefully paying attention to the present moment with an attitude of interest or curiosity rather than judgment. As for self-compassion, it involves being kind and understanding toward yourself, even during moments of suffering or failure. Both of these practices are associated with greater well-being.

Now, don’t confuse self-compassion with self-esteem or self-centeredness, or assume that it somehow lowers your standards, motivation, or productivity. Instead, research shows that self-compassion is linked with greater motivation, less procrastination, and better relationships.

You might be wondering if mindfulness meditation could be the next public health revolution. Well, be patient when starting a meditation practice. When you tried meditation as a college student in the late ’90s, you didn’t like it the first time. You felt like a failure when your mind wandered, and you interpreted that as a sign that you couldn’t do it.