5 Mindful Self-Compassion Practices For Inner Healing
- yvonnenoyesstevens
- Dec 11, 2024
- 6 min read
If you’ve ever felt like something is missing in your life, practicing mindful self-compassion and self-care might help. These habits and ways of dealing with challenges focus on treating yourself with kindness and respect, even when life feels overwhelming. By practicing self-compassion and self-love habits, you can lower stress, feel more connected to your body, and boost your confidence.
This can help you find your voice and improve your overall quality of life.
In this post, we’ll share 5 examples of mindful self-compassion and self-love habits, along with tips on how to add them to your daily routine for a happier, healthier life.
What is Mindful Self Compassion?
You’ve probably heard of “self-love,” but what about “self-compassion”? Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa, author of The Neuroscience of Self Love, describes self-compassion as:
"the ability to be patient and understanding of your challenges, to soothe yourself, and to be there for yourself when you need to regroup or take a break. It’s about letting go of the need to be perfect.”
Combining self-love habits with mindful self-compassion creates a strong foundation for personal growth and emotional well-being.
Why are Mindful Self Compassion and Self Love Important?
One of my clients, Berta, came to me feeling emotionally drained. She realized during our conversations that while she spent most of her time caring for her loved ones, she had “put [herself] at the bottom of the list.” Together, we worked on adding self-love habits and mindful self-compassion to her life. As she did, she became more confident and emotionally balanced. The result? Her relationship with her husband improved, and they rekindled their spark.
It’s common to “pour from an empty cup,” especially for women who feel selfish in taking time for themselves. But when we care so deeply for others that we neglect our own needs, we aren’t helping anyone. Taking care of yourself allows you to show up fully for the people you love.
Ready to start living your fullest, most authentic life? Keep reading for 5 of my favorite ways to show yourself the self-love and self-compassion you deserve.
#1 Find Your Inner Voice With Journaling
Journaling is one of my favorite ways to help people reconnect with their true selves, even when life feels noisy or overwhelming. Some people like to keep a journal by their bed and write in it in the morning or before they go to sleep. It can be a few short notes or you can challenge yourself by trying to write non-stop for three pages. Don’t worry about making it perfect - the goal is simply to write.
A tip if you notice negative self-talk creeping in, is to acknowledge it, thank it for trying to protect you, and then let it go. You don’t need that judgment in your journal! When you journal with self-compassion, it helps clear out all the mental clutter and reconnect with your thoughts and feelings. It’s like giving your mind a fresh start.
Not sure where to start? Here are 3 journal prompts to help you get going:
What’s one kind thing I can do for myself today?
What’s something I’ve been struggling with, and how can I show myself understanding instead of judgment?
What’s one thing I feel proud of, no matter how small?
If you are in the Fitchburg area, come join us on December 22, 2024, at the BLISS Med Spa Open House Sip & Shop where I’ll be giving away free journals!
#2 Work With A Life Coach To Build Mindful Self Compassion
Starting a journey of self-love and staying on track can sometimes feel hard—especially for busy moms, people with packed schedules, or those with demanding jobs. One great way to make it easier is by working with a life coach.
Life coaches are there to help you build self-confidence, figure out what matters most to you, and create real, lasting change in your life. Many people find it to be a life-changing experience that helps them feel more in tune with their inner voice.
As a certified coach, I take the time to get to know you personally, and together, we create a custom plan to support your growth. Along the way, you’ll learn tools like mindful self-compassion that can help you for years to come.
It’s also important to find the right coach without spending too much. That’s why I like to start with a consultation.
This gives us a chance to talk in a relaxed setting where I can learn about you and what you want to achieve. My goal is to make sure we’re a good fit and to help set you up for success that lasts.
#3 Spend Time In Nature To Reconnect With Yourself
Spending time in nature is a great way to practice self-love. One way to do this is through a Japanese practice called forest bathing. Here is how to try it:
Find a natural space like a forest or park, and turn off any technology or put it on silent.
Then, focus on each of your senses - pay attention to the sights, sounds, smells, and how everything feels around you.
You can even dip your toes in a stream or touch the moss on a tree to make the experience even more special!
In our women’s retreats, we also practice nature immersion therapy. Like forest bathing, it involves spending time in nature, but we also add activities like yoga, storytelling, painting, and making crafts. These activities help women feel more connected to nature and spiritually grounded.
Spending time in nature not only calms us but also reminds us that we are all part of something bigger.
It’s a great way to remember to show ourselves the same love, respect, and compassion that we give to the world around us.
#4 Commit To Your Self-Love Journey With Sologamy
One of the most empowering ways to practice self-compassion is through Sologamy, or marrying yourself. At first, this might sound unusual to some, but the ceremony is not about rejecting others. It's about making a personal commitment to honor and love yourself.
In a world where we are often taught to seek love and approval from others, Sologamy brings the focus back to you. It’s an opportunity to recognize your own worth and affirm it from within. Marrying yourself in a Sologamy Ceremony is a powerful act of self-love.
It reminds you that true happiness and fulfillment come from within. It encourages you to put your own needs, dreams, and well-being first - creating a strong foundation for deep, unconditional love and mindful self-compassion.
#5 Nurture Your Body And Mind With Massage & Reiki
Taking time to care for your body through massage and Reiki healing is one of the best ways to show yourself love. These healing practices not only help relax your muscles but also balance your energy, calm your mind, and bring peace to your body.
Whether you’re getting a relaxing massage to release stress or a Reiki session to improve your energy flow, both help you reconnect with yourself and feel better overall.
Adding massage and Reiki to your routine can change how you feel both physically and emotionally. It helps you approach each day with more clarity and calm. If you're curious, come visit my booth at the BLISS Med Spa Open House Sip & Shop on December 22, 2024, to learn how to do simple self-Reiki for quick energy boosts during your day.
Bonus: Attend A Spiritual Retreat
Imagine stepping away from the busy world to focus on nurturing your mind, body, and spirit. A women's spiritual retreat is a great way to practice deep self-love and compassion. Surrounded by a supportive community, you can do activities like yoga, meditation, journaling, and reflection in a peaceful and welcoming space.
It’s a time to release stress, reconnect with your true self, and take care of your well-being.
At the retreats I host in Massachusetts, on cruises, and even abroad, I make sure everyone feels welcome. Our practice is inclusive, so women, those who identify as women, and non-binary individuals can join us.
My goal is to create a safe and empowering space for self-discovery and growth - especially for those looking to find their voice or bring more mindful self-compassion into their lives.
If you’re ready to take your self-love and self-compassion journey to the next level, join us at our upcoming retreat at the historic Howarth House. The retreat will include yoga, time around the fire pit, access to the pool and hot tub, group meditation, workshops, nature activities, drumming, ceremonies, and nightly blessings.
You’ll also have the option to take part in a Sologamy ceremony at the inn or a church during your stay, where you can make a commitment to treat yourself with love and compassion.
Come connect with a community of women who are ready to make a deep commitment to themselves during the first weekend in May. Book a free consultation call with me (Yvonne Andrews) to learn more about the retreat and see how it can fit into your journey.
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