Are you kinder to others than you are to yourself? More than a thousand research studies show the benefits of being a supportive friend to yourself, especially in times of need. This science-based workbook offers a step-by-step approach to breaking free of harsh self-judgments and impossible standards in order to cultivate emotional well-being. In a convenient large-size format, the book is based on the authors' groundbreaking eight-week Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) program, which has helped tens of thousands of people worldwide. It is packed with guided meditations (with audio downloads); informal practices to do anytime, anywhere; exercises; and vivid stories of people using the techniques to address relationship stress, weight and body image issues, health concerns, anxiety, and other common problems. The seeds of self-compassion already lie within you--learn how you can uncover this powerful inner resource and transform your life. See also Teaching the Mindful Self-Compassion Program, by Christopher Germer and Kristin Neff, a thorough overview of conducting MSC (for professionals), and The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion, by Christopher Germer, which delves into mindful self-compassion and shares moving stories of how it can change lives.
Introduction: How to Approach This Workbook 1. What Is Self-Compassion? 2. What Self-Compassion Is Not 3. The Benefits of Self-Compassion 4. The Physiology of Self-Criticism and Self-Compassion 5. The Yin and Yang of Self-Compassion 6. Mindfulness 7. Letting Go of Resistance 8. Backdraft 9. Developing Loving-Kindness 10. Loving-Kindness for Ourselves 11. Self-Compassionate Motivation 12. Self-Compassion and Our Bodies 13. Stages of Progress 14. Living Deeply 15. Being There for Others without Losing Ourselves 16. Meeting Difficult Emotions 17. Self-Compassion and Shame 18. Self-Compassion in Relationships 19. Self-Compassion for Caregivers 20. Self-Compassion and Anger in Relationships 21. Self-Compassion and Forgiveness 22. Embracing the Good 23. Self-Appreciation 24. Taking It Forward Practices and Exercises Resources List of Audio Files Audio downloads: 1. Self-Compassion Break (5:20; Kristin Neff) 2. Self-Compassion Break (12:21; Christopher Germer) 3. Affectionate Breathing (21:28; Kristin Neff) 4. Affectionate Breathing (18:24; Christopher Germer) 5. Loving-Kindness for a Loved One (17:08; Kristin Neff) 6. Loving-Kindness for a Loved One (14:47; Christopher Germer) 7. Finding Loving-Kindness Phrases (23:02; Christopher Germer) 8. Loving-Kindness for Ourselves (20:40; Christopher Germer) 9. Compassionate Body Scan (23:55; Kristin Neff) 10. Compassionate Body Scan (43:36; Christopher Germer) 11. Giving and Receiving Compassion (20:48; Kristin Neff) 12. Giving and Receiving Compassion (21:20; Christopher Germer) 13. Working with Difficult Emotions (16:01; Kristin Neff) 14. Working with Difficult Emotions (16:09; Christopher Germer) 15. Compassionate Friend (18:09; Kristin Neff) 16. Compassionate Friend (15:05; Christopher Germer) 17. Compassion with Equanimity (14:38; Christopher Germer)
